Patient experience and patient safety are widely recognised as two fundamental dimensions of healthcare quality. But how closely are they connected.

In a new systematic review, we examined evidence from 30 studies published between 2000 and 2023 to better understand the relationship between patient experience and patient safety.

Key takeaways 

• Patient experience and patient safety are closely related components of healthcare quality. 

• Evidence suggests positive links between experience and safety, although findings are not consistent across all studies. 

• More research is needed to understand how specific aspects of patient experience influence safety outcomes. 

• Evidence gaps remain in primary care, mental health and some important Picker Principles, including family and carer involvement and access to advice. 

Quality improvement efforts should address patient experience and safety together rather than as separate priorities.

Read the full paper below to explore the methodology, findings and implications for policy, practice and future research.