Communication and Marketing Management in Patient Safety within Healthcare Organizations: A Scoping Review.

INTRODUCTION

Patient safety (PS) is a fundamental pillar of healthcare quality. The effective dissemination of information and knowledge management regarding PS is essential to foster safe practices. Despite significant progress in recent years, gaps remain in how knowledge and information on PS are managed and disseminated across healthcare organizations.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to map the scientific evidence concerning knowledge management strategies and the dissemination of information related to PS, as implemented by healthcare organizations for healthcare professionals.

METHODS

A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. Searches were performed in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, with no time limitations, across databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, as well as grey literature sources such as NOVA Discovery (EBSCO) and selected institutional websites. The review was reported in line with the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines.

RESULTS

Of the 247 publications identified, 16 were included. Three principal strategies for PS-related knowledge management emerged: acquisition, dissemination, and mediation. Continuous training and the adoption of innovative educational methodologies were found to enhance knowledge acquisition. Digital platforms and health marketing tools facilitated dissemination. Knowledge mediation was supported by strategic leadership, informal networks, and interdisciplinary partnerships involving risk managers, clinical leaders, and subject matter experts.

DISCUSSION

Knowledge management strategies demonstrated potential to strengthen PS, with continuous training, organizational culture, and innovation standing out in knowledge acquisition. Dissemination was effective through digital platforms and marketing, while mediation relied on leaders and managers. Challenges remain, such as validating the impact and updating the content. Future research should assess the impact of these strategies on clinical practice, including the perspectives of patients and carers.