This week, March 12-18, 2017 is Patient Safety Awareness Week.

Although the responsibility for safe care lies primarily with the leaders of health care organizations and the clinicians and staff who deliver care, patients and families can also play a role in preventing medical errors and reducing harm. And, although barriers to patient engagement exist, being an active partner in your health care team is well worth the effort.

At some point in our lives, we are all patients. It is important for each of us to be familiar with everyday practices that can help us have a positive, safe experience when we seek health care. It is also important that we pay attention, ask questions, and speak up if something is confusing or seems not right.

So, what should patients do to keep care safe?