World Patient Safety Day 2023

World Patient Safety Day is observed annually on September 17 and aims to raise awareness, engagement, and understanding of the importance of enhancing patient safety and reducing patient harm. For 2023, the United Nations has assigned the theme of ‘Engaging Patients for Patient Safety’, recognizing the critical role patients, families and caregivers play in the safety of healthcare.

We recently sat down with Sonja Kohl, Senior Downstream Marketing Manager for the Teleflex Urology Care Business Unit to discuss what patient safety means to her and how this theme resonates with Teleflex’s broader commitment to prioritize patient safety in its business.

Teleflex: Can you give us an overview of the Urology Care business unit and its focus for the organization?

The Teleflex Urology Care Business Unit designs health improvement solutions and offers urological products for users, caregivers, and healthcare professionals at hospitals, at home or on the move. We focus on the design and development of intermittent catheters. Our ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life for individuals who rely on these products for their urological needs every day.

Teleflex: Tell us a little about yourself and your role at Teleflex? What has inspired your passion for patient safety?

Throughout my nearly thirty-year journey at Teleflex, I have held various positions in sales, customer service and marketing, always fully dedicated to the Urology Business Unit and the wellbeing of patients. I have been privileged to closely engage with our customers and witness their triumphs and challenges, which has deeply influenced my perspective on patient safety.

My focus within Teleflex has always been on homecare, where I have met countless individuals who have experienced life-altering accidents or diseases, resulting in paralysis and the need for intermittent catheters. Their stories have reminded me of the importance of safe and effective medical solutions.

My interactions with patients have provided me with unique insight into their lives, aspirations, and struggles. Witnessing their determination to lead independent lives, pursue education, careers, and provide for their families, despite their challenges, has been nothing short of inspiring. It is this firsthand experience that drives my passion for patient safety.

The stories of the patients I have encountered, including those born with conditions like Spina Bifida, underscore the significance of our work at Teleflex Urology Care. Every product we develop, every enhancement we make, is aimed at empowering patients to reclaim their lives, and embrace their full potential. For me, patient safety is more than just a professional obligation. The satisfaction of creating products that not only meet medical needs, but also can potentially contribute to more independence for a patient is immeasurable. I am honored to be part of an organization that places patients at the heart of everything we do. As we mark World Patient Safety Day 2023, I am reminded of the countless lives we touch and the impact we have on fostering patient wellbeing. It is a privilege to contribute to a cause that directly affects the lives of individuals striving to live their lives to the fullest, irrespective of the challenges they face. My experiences remind me every day that our work matters, and our commitment can make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Teleflex: Advocating for patient safety is an important element in a MedTech company collectively. But how do you “elevate the voice of the patient” in your day to day?

“Elevating the voice of the patient” is a core principle guiding our actions at Teleflex Urology Care. We recognize that patients are experts in their own experiences, and their insights are invaluable. To ensure their voices are heard, we employ a variety of strategies. Regular patient feedback surveys and direct interactions with patients and patient associations allow us to gather input directly from those who use our products. This patient-centric approach guides our decisions and helps us continuously improve our products and services.

Teleflex: What do you see as the patient’s role in creating patient safety?

Patients are not just recipients of care; they are active participants in their own safety. Their role is multi-faceted: from being informed about their conditions and treatment options to communicating openly with healthcare providers. Patients are the first line of defense in identifying potential risks or issues. By engaging patients as partners, we create a collaborative environment where their insights contribute to safe and effective healthcare solutions.

Teleflex: How has Teleflex used patient feedback to improve processes or technology used in providing care for patient safety?

Patient feedback plays an important role in our continuous improvement efforts. We analyze feedback to identify patterns, concerns, and areas for enhancement, including ensuring compliance with applicable laws. Additionally, patient feedback has inspired us to develop patient guides and other educational materials that empower patients to manage their conditions with confidence. By harnessing patient insights, we have not only enhanced our products but we honor our patient-centered culture that values safety.

This year’s theme of "Engaging patients for patient safety" deeply resonates with our mission at Teleflex Urology Care. Valuing patient insight as partners in healthcare drives our commitment to innovation, safety, and improving quality of life. Embracing the patient's perspective, among other considerations, helps us to continue to prioritize patient safety in every aspect of our business.

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