Perceptions of managers on patient safety culture

a study in the health units of

Abstract

The culture of patient safety has gained relevance since the publication of the report “To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System” by the Institute of Medicine in the 2000s. Implementing this culture is essential to ensure healthcare quality and minimize risks. This study investigates the perceptions of managers from Health Units under the Municipal Health Department of Porto Alegre regarding their role in promoting a safety culture in Primary Health Care (PHC). Using a cross-sectional, qualitative, exploratory methodology, semi-structured interviews were conducted with five managers to understand their experiences and opinions. The results reveal challenges in understanding adverse events and the safety culture concept, with managers often acting as mediators, limiting their ability to drive meaningful changes. The study underscores the need for further manager training and a review of health policies. Managers are encouraged to adopt a proactive role, turning challenges into opportunities to enhance care quality in PHC.