Positive deviance is an asset-based improvement approach. At its core is the belief that solutions to problems already exist within communities, and that identifying, understanding, and sharing these solutions enables improvements at scale. Originating in the field of international public health in the 1960s, positive deviance is now, with some adaptations, seeing growing application in healthcare. We present examples of how positive deviance has been used to support healthcare improvement. We draw on an emerging view of safety, known as Safety II, to explain why positive deviance has drawn the interest of researchers and improvers alike. In doing so, we identify a set of fundamental values associated with the positive deviance approach and consider how far they align with current use. Throughout, we consider the untapped potential of the approach, reflect on its limitations, and offer insights into the possible challenges of using it in practice. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.

This book helps the next generation of doctors understand how to contribute to making healthcare safer. Patient safety is increasingly important in medical practice today and is becoming a core part of training for medical students and foundation doctors. This book will enable the student or junior doctor to challenge and innovate in practice to improve patient safety and care. It takes a practical approach and explores what patient safety is, why it is important, how to involve patients, the role of education, technology and resources, how to be an innovative practitioner and measuring the impact of patient safety initiatives.