Tribute to a Pioneer in Patient Safety
Morten Finckenhagen, a resident of Bærums Verk and a dedicated advocate for patient safety, has been honored with an esteemed award at the recent Patient Safety Conference. At 70 years of age, Finckenhagen’s groundbreaking contributions to ensuring the safe administration of medications have been recognized by the Norwegian Directorate of Health.
For three decades, Finckenhagen served as a general practitioner at the Bekkestua GP practice. In the past twelve years, he has expanded his influence within the health administration, taking on varied roles that underscore his commitment to improving patient care.
His commitment to drug safety has earned him the title of the “father of the drug list” (Pasientens legemidelliste, PLL). According to a press release, Finckenhagen has been a steadfast advocate for drug reconciliation, drug reviews, and de-medication practices. His efforts have left an indelible mark on Norwegian healthcare, resulting in safer treatments for countless patients.
The jury highlighted Finckenhagen’s success in elevating significant patient safety challenges regarding improper and unnecessary medication use to the national stage. His extensive lecturing, along with the training of medical and pharmacy students, has inspired change across the health service. Through his close collaborations with the former patient safety initiative “In Safe Hands” and the Directorate of Health, Finckenhagen has disseminated vital knowledge and fostered a willingness to adapt within the healthcare community.
In celebrating his achievements, we are reminded of the essential role that dedicated individuals like Morten Finckenhagen play in shaping a safer and more effective healthcare system for all.