From the Heart of the Founders: Our Promise of Patient Safety

Have you ever worried about catching an infection while being treated in the hospital? Or wondered if a wrong medication could put your health at risk? The truth is, millions of people across the world suffer harm not from their illness, but from unsafe healthcare. Patient safety is not just a medical concern; it is a commitment shared by healthcare professionals, hospitals, patients, and families.

The Growing Challenge of Patient Safety

Across the world, patient safety has emerged as a critical healthcare priority. In India alone, around 5.2 million injuries occur annually due to medical errors, leading to nearly 3 million preventable deaths each year. Studies show that for every 100 hospitalizations, about 12.7 adverse events take place. The most common causes include:

These numbers highlight that unsafe care is not rare; it is a real risk. Yet, experts believe up to 50% of such harm is preventable.

Dr. Gopichand Mannam, Managing Director, STAR Hospitals Group, Hyderabad, explains: “Patient safety is the core of STAR’s mission, not just a protocol. Safety is embedded in our culture, systems, and decision-making across the hospital. Every patient interaction, from admission to discharge, is guided by safety standards. Continuous innovation, audits, and training keep our safety practices evolving. At STAR, we are committed to building a system where quality and safety always go hand in hand.”

Why Errors Go Unreported?

Despite the scale of the problem, many medical errors are not reported. The reasons include:

Dr. Ramesh Gudapati, Joint Managing Director, STAR Hospitals Group, Hyderabad, adds: “WHO emphasizes that safety requires action from leaders and teams. At STAR, our leadership drives safety-focused systems, technology, and culture. Every staff member—doctors, nurses, technicians, and support, is empowered for safety. We also value patient voices, because communication and transparency reduce risks. At STAR, our promise is safe, reliable, and compassionate care for every patient.”

What Patients Can Do to Stay Safe

Patient safety is not just the responsibility of hospitals; it’s a shared effort between healthcare providers, patients, and families. Here are some important steps every patient should follow:

By following these simple steps, patients and caregivers can reduce their risk of infections and errors.

Building a Culture of Safety

Patient safety is more than avoiding mistakes; it is about creating a culture where patients feel safe, informed, and respected. At STAR Hospitals, this culture is reinforced by:

Our Commitment

Safe care saves lives. Every patient deserves treatment that heals, not harms. At STAR Hospitals, we are dedicated to protecting patients from preventable risks and ensuring safe, compassionate, and effective care.

If you or a loved one is admitted for treatment, know your role in safety—ask questions, follow instructions, and speak up. Together, patients and healthcare providers can build a safer healthcare system for all.