FAQs
What is the primary responsibility of a Patient Safety Specialist?
The primary responsibility of a Patient Safety Specialist is to provide dynamic senior patient safety leadership, ensuring the implementation of the NHS Patient Safety Strategy and promoting a systems approach to patient safety within their organization.
How does a Patient Safety Specialist contribute to improving patient safety?
A Patient Safety Specialist leads initiatives related to insight, involvement, and improvement activities, embedding systems thinking and human factors understanding into patient safety processes, while also analyzing safety data to identify trends and recommending actions.
Are there opportunities for professional development in this role?
Yes, the role supports personal development to ensure knowledge is robust, and Patient Safety Specialists are encouraged to engage in ongoing education and training in line with national and organizational needs.
Will I be involved in training staff regarding patient safety?
Yes, one of the responsibilities includes supporting leads to ensure all staff are trained in Level 1 of the patient safety syllabus.
How does the Patient Safety Specialist collaborate with other teams?
The Patient Safety Specialist works closely with others who have specific patient safety responsibilities, supporting an aligned approach to safety improvement and sharing good practices across provider-level, ICB PSSs, and regional PSS networks.
What is the process for handling significant events in patient safety?
The Patient Safety Specialist acts as lead reviewer on significant events reviews, ensuring they are appropriately allocated and acted upon by trained staff, promoting a systems approach to conduct thorough investigations and improve safety governance.
Is this role involved in national patient safety initiatives?
Yes, the Patient Safety Specialist may be requested to raise awareness of urgent national safety concerns and to assist the NHSE National Patient Safety Team with local issues.
What qualifications or expertise are required for this position?
The role requires expertise in patient safety systems and processes, clinical knowledge, project management methodology, and the ability to analyze complex patient safety data.
Can I discuss the role with someone for more information?
Yes, for further details or informal visits, you can contact Claire Brockbank, Head of Governance & Safety, via email at claire.brockbank@merseycare.nhs.uk or by phone at 01925 664165.
Does Mersey Care offer flexible working options?
Yes, flexible working requests will be considered for all roles within the organization.