Joint Commission International (JCI) has announced the launch of the Global Patient Safety Awards, a worldwide initiative recognizing healthcare organizations and public health authorities that are driving measurable improvements in patient safety through innovative and sustainable practices.
The awards program aims to showcase groundbreaking patient safety solutions that are improving outcomes across diverse healthcare settings while encouraging the global adoption of proven strategies that strengthen safer care delivery.
Recognizing Excellence in Patient Safety
The Global Patient Safety Awards will honor organizations whose initiatives demonstrate meaningful real-world impact and the potential for scalability across healthcare systems worldwide.
The awards feature two primary tracks:
- Healthcare Organizations
- National, State, or Provincial Health Authorities
Within each category, an international review panel will identify:
- Outstanding patient safety practices from around the world
- Distinguished innovations demonstrating exceptional overall impact
Through this initiative, JCI seeks to promote collaboration, shared learning, and the acceleration of effective patient safety practices that can benefit patients and communities globally.
Eligibility Criteria
The awards are open to healthcare organizations and governing bodies involved in patient care delivery or oversight, including:
- Hospitals and health systems
- Ambulatory and outpatient centers
- Community and rural healthcare facilities
- Ministries of Health programs
- National, state, or provincial health authorities
- Academic and specialty care centers
Organizations are not required to hold JCI accreditation to participate.
Applicants may submit pilot-tested or fully implemented initiatives, provided the practices are actively being used in real-world clinical settings. Participating organizations must also verify the accuracy of all submitted data.
Applications Now Open
The JCI Patient Safety Awards for Best Innovative Practices are currently accepting submissions.
Applications will be reviewed by a panel of international experts based on criteria including:
- Effectiveness
- Innovation
- Transferability
- Sustainability
Key Dates
- Submission Window: 20 April 2026 – 8 June 2026
- Winners Notification: July 2026
- Awards Recognition: During UNIFY 2026 on 30 September and 1 October 2026
Healthcare organizations and health authorities seeking to showcase impactful patient safety initiatives can learn more and apply through https://www.jointcommission.org/en/about-us/recognizing-excellence/global-patient-safety-awards.
