Whereas, Hospital and health care leaders in Michigan are committed to creating a culture of safety that encourages the prevention and reporting of errors and these agencies and professionals are actively involved in activities to improve the quality of health care and communication with patients and families; and,

Whereas, Since consumers, health providers and communities must work together and provide leadership for reducing and preventing medical errors, the Michigan Health & Safety Coalition (MH&SC) was formed in 2000 to bring together representatives from the major health care stakeholders: physicians, pharmacists, nurses, hospital organizations, health care purchasers, labor and health plans to ensure quality and patient safety; and,

Whereas, Through the efforts of the National Patient Safety Foundation, Business Leapfrog Group and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) five steps have been identified to help patients prevent and reduce medical errors:

1. Speak up if you have questions
2. Keep a list of all medicines you take
3. Make sure you get the results of any test procedures
4. Talk with your doctor and health care team about your options if you need hospital care
5. Make sure you understand what will happen if you need surgery; and,

Whereas, The fifteen member Michigan Health and Safety Coalition provides a forum to discuss and promote data-driven public policy based upon the use of best practices for clinical evidence, coordination of care, expansion of health care coverage and access to health services; and,

Whereas, The goal of Patient Safety Week is to promote education and communication about patient safety, as well as partnerships between patients, health care providers, businesses, labor, and health insurers; and now therefore be it,