A new approach to patient safety incident response, the Patient Safety Incident Response Framework (PSIRF) has been published on the 16th August 2022.
The framework sets out a new approach to developing and maintaining effective sytems and processes for patient safety incident response, aiming to develop learning and improve patient safety.
“We welcome the publication of NHS England’s new Patient Safety Incident Response Framework (PSIRF) and the focus it places on effective learning and compassionate, meaningful engagement with those affected when incidents occur. Through our monitoring and inspection we have seen how the existence of a strong organisational safety culture, where the views of staff and patients are listened to and acted on, and learning is prioritised is essential to good practice in responding when things go wrong.”
The new PSIRF framework replaces the Serious Incident Framework published in 2015, and it integrates four key aims:
- Compassionate engagement and involvement of those affected by patient safety incidents
- Application of a range of system-based approached to learning from patient safety incidents
- Considered and proportionate responses to patient safety incidents
- Supportive oversight focused on strengthening response system functioning and improvement
This framework is mandatory for services provided under NHS Standard Contract, including acute, ambulance, mental health, and community healthcare providers. According to early adopter sites, the new framework improves the experience of patients and families involved in investigations, maximises opportunities to learn and improve, and places patient safety at the centre.
To read the new PSIRF framework and guidance documents, visit the NHS England website.
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