The Collective Prevention Service (CPS), an executive agency of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), is joining the global observance of World Patient Safety Day on Thursday, September 17, 2026.
This year’s theme is “Safe Care for Noncommunicable Diseases,” accompanied by the slogan “Safe Care for Life!”
World Patient Safety Day was established by the World Health Organization (WHO) to increase public awareness, strengthen cooperation and encourage action by governments, healthcare institutions, professionals, patients, families and communities to reduce preventable harm in healthcare.
The 2026 campaign focuses on the safety of people living with noncommunicable diseases, also known as NCDs. These long-term conditions include cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes and chronic respiratory illnesses.
NCDs often require lifelong care, regular medical appointments, diagnostic testing, medication and treatment from multiple healthcare professionals. These repeated interactions with the healthcare system can increase the possibility of medication errors, delayed or incorrect diagnoses, poor communication, fragmented care and other forms of preventable harm.
According to WHO, noncommunicable diseases account for approximately 74 per cent of deaths worldwide. Globally, one in every 10 patients experiences harm while receiving healthcare, with approximately half of that harm considered preventable.
CPS emphasizes that patient safety must be maintained throughout the entire continuum of care—from prevention, screening and early diagnosis to treatment, rehabilitation and the long-term management of chronic conditions. Safe care is important in hospitals and clinics as well as in pharmacies, laboratories, homes and community-care settings.
Strong and coordinated healthcare systems, supported healthcare professionals and clear communication between providers are essential to preventing harm. People living with NCDs must also be recognized as active partners in their care.
Patients and caregivers can contribute to safer care by: Keeping an updated list of all prescribed and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements; Informing healthcare professionals about allergies, previous reactions and existing medical conditions.
Asking about the purpose, dosage and possible side effects of prescribed medicines; Confirming that healthcare providers are aware of treatments prescribed by other doctors;
Asking questions when instructions, test results or treatment plans are unclear; Following medication and treatment instructions as directed; Attending scheduled medical appointments and recommended screenings.
Reporting unexpected symptoms or side effects promptly;
Requesting written instructions when needed; and
Bringing a trusted relative or caregiver to appointments when additional support is helpful.
Healthcare professionals and institutions also have a responsibility to promote a culture in which patients feel comfortable asking questions, expressing concerns and participating in decisions about their treatment.
CPS encourages residents living with hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, asthma, chronic respiratory illness and other long-term conditions to remain actively involved in managing their health. Do not stop taking prescribed medication or change the dosage without first consulting a qualified healthcare professional.
Family members and caregivers also play an important role by supporting patients, helping them understand medical information, monitoring changes in their condition and ensuring that important details are communicated to healthcare providers.
CPS calls on healthcare providers, patients, caregivers and the wider community to work together to reduce preventable harm and strengthen the quality and safety of healthcare throughout Sint Maarten.
Every person deserves safe, respectful and high-quality healthcare—at every stage of life and in every care setting. Safe care is everyone’s concern. Safe care is for life.
