How to improve the quality of healthcare services and patient safety by adopting strategies from the aviation sector?

Background and objective: The World Health Organization recognizes patient safety as a priority as part of its global strategy to improve the quality of health services. However, several initiatives need to be integrated and systematized to increase the reliability of healthcare systems. This article discusses several management strategies developed in the aviation sector that have led to a drastic decrease in the accident rate. The aim is to describe each strategy and contrast them with their application in the healthcare sector. Methods: Different results and recommendations from the literature and institutions such as the World Health Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization were consulted and compiled. A synthesis of the identified strategies was made, highlighting examples of their application and impact. Results: Five key strategies were identified: 1) no-blame incident reporting systems, 2) systematic use of checklists, 3) recurrent training and use of simulation, 4) management of fatigue and work schedules, and 5) management of teamwork. Conclusions: The strategies from the aviation sector are presented as a valuable reference for improving patient safety and the quality of healthcare services. They should be consolidated and harmoniously integrated into the design and management of health systems.