Father Muller Medical College Hospital Observes World Patient Safety Day
Mangaluru, September 17, 2026: Father Muller Medical College Hospital observed World Patient Safety Day on September 17 with an awareness programme highlighting the importance of safe and continuous care for patients living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
The programme was organised by the Quality Department as part of the World Patient Safety Day observance. This year’s theme, “Safe Care for Noncommunicable Diseases,” focuses on strengthening patient safety in the management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, cancer and chronic respiratory diseases.
The programme commenced with a prayer, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries.
The programme was presided over by Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director, Father Muller Charitable Institutions. The chief guest was Dr. Mrinal B. Shetty, Professor and Head, Department of Orthopaedics and Spine Surgery.
Other dignitaries on the dais included Rev. Fr. George Jeevan Sequeira, Administrator, Father Muller Medical College Hospital; Dr. Uday Kumar, Medical Superintendent and Patient Safety Officer; Dr. Kishan B. Shetty, Deputy Medical Superintendent; Rev. Sr. Nancy Mathias, Chief Nursing Officer; and Rev. Fr. William D’Souza, Assistant Administrator, FMMCH.
The programme was attended by doctors, nurses, department in-charges, administrative staff, students, patients and visitors.
An overview of the various patient safety initiatives and activities undertaken at the hospital was presented by Ms Shyni Cardoza, Organising Secretary. The presentation highlighted the institution’s continued efforts to promote a strong culture of patient safety and quality healthcare.
As part of the presentation, a Patient Safety Awareness Brochure based on the theme “Safe Care for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs)” was launched to promote awareness among patients, families and the wider community. The brochure provides simple information about NCDs, their risk factors and preventive measures, as well as the importance of early detection and regular health check-ups.
Chief Guest Dr. Mrinal B. Shetty addressed the gathering on the significance of patient safety and the need for safe, effective and continuous care, particularly in the management of non-communicable diseases. He emphasised the importance of awareness, teamwork and adherence to safe healthcare practices.
Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo presented a memento to Dr. Mrinal B. Shetty as a token of appreciation.
Addressing the gathering, Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo shared an insightful message on non-communicable diseases. He highlighted the growing importance of awareness, prevention, early detection and appropriate management of NCDs, while emphasising the role of healthy lifestyle practices in reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Collage-Making Competition
As part of the World Patient Safety Day observance, a Collage-Making Competition was organised on September 16. The competition provided participants with an opportunity to creatively communicate messages related to non-communicable diseases and patient safety.
The winners were:
First Prize: Anitha Maria Rodrigues and Presilla Wilma D’Souza – Nursing Services Department
Second Prize: Dr Nikhitha Amin and Dr Priya Shwetha – Research Centre
Third Prize: Soumya N.V. and Ramesh Naik – Dietary Department
The prizes were distributed by Chief Guest Dr. Mrinal B. Shetty.
The organisers also expressed their appreciation to the judges, Dr Savitha Lasrado, Professor, Department of ENT, and Dr Shiji P.J., Professor, Father Muller College of Nursing, for their valuable time and contribution to the evaluation of the competition. Mementos were presented to the judges by Dr Uday Kumar, Medical Superintendent.
Adding an engaging element to the programme, the Nursing Department presented a skit highlighting the importance of awareness and safe care in relation to non-communicable diseases. The performance conveyed the significance of responsible healthcare practices and patient involvement in managing chronic illnesses.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the support and guidance of the hospital leadership, the chief guest, the organising team from the Quality Department, healthcare professionals, administrative staff, students, patients and their families.
The programme was compered by Ms Jyothi Moras of the Quality Department.
The World Patient Safety Day programme served as an opportunity for the institution to reinforce its commitment to safe, quality and patient-centred healthcare while promoting greater awareness of the importance of patient safety in the management of non-communicable diseases.