Company Profile
Oregon Patient Safety Commission
Company Overview
The Oregon Patient Safety Commission (OPSC) is a multi-faceted, semi-independent state agency created by the legislature in 2003 to further patient safety in the state. We operate multiple mission-driven programs, which include the Patient Safety Reporting Program, Early Discussion and Resolution, and various quality improvement initiatives. OPSC's semi-independent status gives the organization access to resources while allowing it to approach the work from a nimble, non-regulatory standpoint. OPSC prides itself on having a grassroots foundation and history of innovation.
We are a small organization staffed with people who are passionate about the mission. OPSC offers an exceptional benefit package including:
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits
• Retirement (PERS)
• Optional life and disability insurance
• Generous vacation and sick leave
• Ten paid holidays
Creativity, sense of humor, and a commitment to our mission are some of the traits we value most in our employees.
Company History
In 2003, the Oregon legislature created the Oregon Patient Safety Commission (OPSC) following recommendations from a work-group representing a broad spectrum of healthcare providers, insurers, purchasers, and consumers. The group shared a passionate concern for patient safety. In the words of one of the work-group’s members, Ellen C. Lowe (public testimony in support of HB 2349):
“As I sought remedies that would support healthcare system improvements that would result in quality outcomes for patients, I discovered that I was not alone. All the members of the group were part of this quest for a process and a culture of patient safety that would work for patients and the institutions charged with serving them.”
The vision for the organization was to create an independent voice for patient safety in the state that would encourage all representatives and users of the healthcare system to come together to work on shared goals—goals that were in service to the organizations mission to reduce the risk of patient harm and encourage a culture of patient safety.
Founding Principles
Create a safe, non-punitive, and confidential haven for the collection and use of patient safety information for learning
Change the climate of patient safety in Oregon, while acknowledging that such change will require a long-term, sustained effort
Identify and share best practices
Fully represent patients and the patient’s experience in patient safety efforts
Encourage a “just culture” framework that balances individual accountability with a non-punitive, learning approach to achieve system improvements
Through collaboration and partnerships, OPSC has grown its body of work to advance, support, and encourage patient safety in Oregon.
Benefits
Generous benefits package including employer-paid health insurance, paid vacation, sick, holiday and personal leave. Optional life insurance and flexible spending accounts, and an employer contribution to a retirement plan (PERS).