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Preventable Acute Diseases Are Rising: What Healthcare Leaders Need to Know
Patient Safety

Preventable Acute Diseases Are Rising: What Healthcare Leaders Need to Know

ECRI has just released its Top 10 Patient Safety Concerns 2026, highlighting the most urgent patient safety challenges currently facing the healthcare industry. This report is informed by evidence-based research, data, and expert insight from both ECRI and the Institute for Safe Medication Practices. Beyond identifying these concerns, we also offer guidance and resources to help organizations tackle them, supporting a systems approach to safety.

#3 Patient Safety Concern: Increasing Rates of Preventable Acute Diseases in Communities and Healthcare Settings

Preventable diseases—including both vaccine-preventable illnesses and those dependent on sanitation and infection control—are rising in communities and healthcare facilities. Declining vaccination coverage, misinformation, and reductions in public health funding have contributed to outbreaks of illnesses such as measles, pertussis, and dysentery. These illnesses pose significant risks to vulnerable populations and increase strain on healthcare organizations.

Healthcare systems must strengthen infection prevention programs, improve patient and staff education, and partner with public health agencies to counter misinformation. Consistent screening, vaccination policies, and outbreak protocols are necessary for protecting patients and preventing avoidable morbidity and mortality.

The Full List of Patient Safety Concerns for 2026

  1. Navigating the AI Diagnostic Dilemma
  2. Reduced Access to Rural Healthcare Increases Health Risks and Disparities
  3. Increasing Rates of Preventable Acute Diseases in Communities and Healthcare Settings
  4. Effects of Federal Funding Cuts on Healthcare Operations and Patient Safety
  5. Lack of Recognition and Reporting of Harm Events
  6. Structural and Systemic Barriers Inhibit Equitable Pain Management for Women
  7. Persistent Workforce Shortages Continue to Burden Staff and Restrict Access to Care
  8. The Impact on System Improvement When a Culture of Blame Hinders Learning
  9. Emergency Department Boarding Contributes to Worse Patient Outcomes
  10. Persistent Gaps in Manufacturer Packaging and Labeling Design Continue to Undermine Medication Safety Efforts

Download ECRI’s full report : Top 10 Patient Safety Concerns 2026.