This research scan from the Health Foundation explores steps that have been taken to improve patient safety in primary care.

Compared with hospital care, there is relatively little research about improving patient safety in primary care. The evidence that does exist is of variable quality, with a large number of simple observational studies describing strategies implemented at single organisations.

This evidence scan collates empirical evidence that addresses the following questions:

• What initiatives have been implemented to improve safety in primary care and what are the impacts of these initiatives?
• How have patients, professionals, researchers and funders been involved?
• Are there ongoing studies or media stories about this topic?