What an amazing week that was! I feel very fortunate to have spent time in Telluride with such incredible people, in such a pristine setting, expanding my mind around the world of patient safety and QI. The challenge now, of course, will be to carry the acquired knowledge forward and sustain our motivation to honor those commitments in our own institutions or practices.
One idea that really resonated with me this week, continued consideration of which will help cultivate my efforts in QI, was embedded in an anecdote shared by David Mayer. His thoughtful description of the Australian cardiac surgeon who went about his day in full awareness of his surroundings, helping complete strangers avoid puddles and flat tires in order to create a safer environment for everyone, was quite moving.
This got me thinking, that QI and patient safety efforts, similar to Dr. Hughes’ behaviors, represent a professional and moral high ground. If we aim to live life in service of the greater good, we ought to continuously consider all of the systems with which we interact, and strive to make them better. In this way, a commitment to QI and patient safety transcends the realm of research and medicine, and becomes a primary responsibility as physicians and human beings.
I can’t wait to bring my new knowledge and perspective back to my home institution, and carry it with me wherever I go : )
Thank you all for a tremendous experience!