This page provides helpful resources that patients can use when they see a doctor or other health care provider, or when they are admitted to the hospital for care. Also in this section are fact sheets for consumers — because we will all be patients some day.

Universal Patient Compact

The Universal Patient Compact is a statement of principles established by the NPSF Patient and Family Advisory Committee. It defines the elements of true and effective partnering between patients and providers. The compact is meant to serve as a framework for integrating patients and families into health care teams.

Read the Frequently Asked Questions about the Universal Patient Compact.

Download the  Universal Patient Compact [PDF format].

Post-Discharge Tool

Readmission is a term used in health care when a patient is admitted to the hospital within 30 days of being discharged for the same or a related condition. Patients can do their part to avoid readmission by following their care plan, keeping track of medicines, and making and keeping follow-up appointments.

The Post-Discharge Tool is a resource for patients to use after their discharge from the hospital to help them avoid readmission.

Read the Frequently Asked Questions about the Post-Discharge Tool.

Download the Post-Discharge Tool [PDF format]

Fact Sheets and Guidelines for Patients

White Papers

NPSF has produced several white papers about patient engagement in health care. These are available in PDF form via download.

National Agenda for Action: Patients and Families in Patient Safety–Nothing About Me, Without Me  [download in PDF format]

A Tale of Two Stories: Contrasting Views of Patient Safety [download in PDF format]

Links and Further Reading

A number of governmental and private organizations are also working on patient safety issues. They have other resources for patients and consumers that you may wish to review. Click here for a list and description of these organizations.