IHI's approach to workforce safety integrates physical and psychological safety into a single, system-wide agenda — one that has shaped national policy, informed federal measurement standards, and been adopted across some of the most complex health systems in the world. 

Through the National Steering Committee for Patient Safety, a 27-organization collaboration, IHI led the production of the Safer Together National Action Plan for Patient Safety which includes workforce safety and well-being as one of four foundational areas for realizing total system safety. An accompanying online assessment enables organizations to identify gaps and opportunities for healthcare leaders to continuously improve this area. Other collaborating organizations include: 

• AHRQ, Veterans Health Administration, CMS 

• American Nurses Association, American Hospital Association, American College of Healthcare Executives 

• Mayo Clinic, Baylor Scott and White Health, Kaiser Permanente 

• NHS Highland, NHS Scotland, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust 

Result: Safer teams, stronger communication, and measurable improvements in patient care.

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IHI works directly alongside frontline staff and clinical leaders to redesign the care delivery models, workflows, structures, and conditions that drive people out of healthcare — replacing individual burden with systems built for sustainability. 

This co-design approach has been tested and refined across health systems, children's hospitals, and academic medical centers, with support from national foundations committed to transforming how care work is organized and experienced. 

Collaborating organizations include: 

•  Northwell Health, Nemours Children's Health, Mount Auburn Hospital 

• Children's Hospital Association, Johnson and Johnson Foundation, The Commonwealth Fund, Veterans' Health Administration 

Result: Improved retention, greater workforce stability, and sustained high-quality performance. 

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