Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority – Harrisburg, PA

About Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority

The Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority (PSA) is an independent state agency headquartered at 333 Market Street in Harrisburg. Established under the Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error (MCARE) Act of 2002, the PSA is dedicated to identifying, analyzing, and reducing medical errors in healthcare facilities across the Commonwealth. Unlike regulatory bodies that punish violations, the PSA focuses on education, collaboration, and data analysis to improve patient outcomes.

Mission and Operations

The Authority operates the Pennsylvania Patient Safety Reporting System (PA-PSRS), which collects reports of serious events and incidents from hospitals, ambulatory surgical facilities, and nursing homes. Key activities include:

• Data Analysis: Analyzing millions of reports to identify trends and hazards in healthcare.
• Education: Publishing the Patient Safety Advisory and offering training programs to healthcare providers.
• Guidance: issuing recommendations to prevent infections, surgical errors, and medication mistakes.

Location and Access

The PSA’s offices are located on the Lobby Level of the 333 Market Street building, often referred to as the Education Building, situated directly across from the Harrisburg Transportation Center. As a state government facility, access is controlled. Visitors typically need an appointment and must undergo security screening at the main entrance. Photo ID is required.

Transit and Parking

The location is exceptionally accessible via public transit, being adjacent to the Amtrak and Greyhound stations. For drivers, the Chestnut Street Garage and other downtown parking facilities are within a short walking distance.