In 2008, the OHA and CPSI worked collaboratively on a Roundtable event and publication of a Background Paper outlining the current issues in patient safety across mental health settings. After the success of the final background paper publication “Patient Safety in Mental Health,” both organizations have jointly identified the need to further refine this work and gain a deeper understanding of a particular patient safety issue facing the mental health in Canada.
The OHA and CPSI have continued their collaborative partnership to examine patient safety issues in the mental health sector in Canada. Following this work, both organizations have agreed to continue to explore specific patient safety issues facing the mental health sector and develop a practical resource to support improved patient safety within the field. The specific focus and scope of work was determined by a small working group of the OHA and CPSI, following consultation with several key stakeholders, who identified the need for a suicide risk assessment and prevention resource guide.
This suggestion to focus on suicide risk assessment was in keeping with the findings from the final background paper (available in English and French at the link below) which acknowledged the need for the identification and implementation of a standardized suicide risk assessment tool as a priority.
Please click on the following links for further information relating to the Patient Safety in Mental Health initiative:
Inventory and Resource Guide Development for the Assessment and Prevention of Suicide Risk
Patient Safety in Mental Health Pan-Canadian Advisory Group
2008/09 Background Paper & Roundtable Event
For more information about the Patient Safety in Mental Health initiative, contact Sudha Kutty, Director, Patient Safety, Physician and Professional Issues at 416-205-1415 or skutty@oha.com.
For further information about the Canadian Patient Safety Institute, please click here.