Under the slogan ‘Lifelong Safe Care’, the Torrecárdenas University Hospital, part of the Andalusian Health Service (SAS), celebrated World Patient Safety Day. The event aligns with the Patient Safety Strategy (ESSPA) of the Regional Ministry of the Presidency, Health, and Emergencies.
This day, observed annually on September 17th by the World Health Organization (WHO), focuses this year on non-communicable diseases. The aim is to raise awareness about safety risks and preventable harm for individuals with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, which often require lifelong continuous and coordinated care.
Juan de la Cruz Belmonte, delegate for Health and Consumption, highlighted during the inauguration the “silent but essential work of thousands of professionals” who apply protocols and oversee treatments. He emphasized that “every action, however small it may seem, contributes to reducing risks and preventing incidents,” acknowledging the dedication of the healthcare teams.
Belmonte stressed the importance of “continuous training” and the “listening efforts” directed towards both patients and caregivers, which are crucial for improving patient safety at all life stages, in line with the WHO's theme.
For his part, Manuel Vida, general manager of the Torrecárdenas University Hospital, stated that patient safety is a “permanent commitment” rather than a one-off objective. He underscored its significance for patients with long-term conditions, where coordinated work across different care levels is essential.
The hospital adopted the slogan ‘Voices that Care’ for this celebration. Ana Caro, head of the Quality, Clinical Documentation, and Coding Service, explained that “patient safety is built by listening, sharing, and working together,” recalling that “behind every care process there are people, and each one has a story that deserves to be heard.”
The event featured a debate panel titled ‘Voices of a Safe Life: Stories that Heal’, which included Carmen María Ventura, caregiver for a child with Duchenne syndrome; Sonia Verdegay, a breast cancer patient; and Soraya Muñoz, a cardiologist specializing in Heart Failure at the hospital.
The commemorative activities concluded with an educational session for patients and professionals held at the ‘Espacio Pérez Siquier’.
