Healthcare Quality and Safety in Garhwal Division: A Study on Patient Safety and Quality of Care

ABSTRACT This study examines the state of healthcare quality and patient safety in the Garhwal Division of Uttarakhand, India—a region marked by challenging geography and infrastructure constraints. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study evaluates patient perceptions, healthcare practices, and adherence to quality standards across selected healthcare institutions. Key findings reveal infrastructural limitations, inconsistent safety protocols, communication gaps, and a significant preference for private over public healthcare services. The paper offers targeted recommendations for policymakers and healthcare administrators aimed at improving care quality, ensuring patient safety, and fostering trust in the healthcare system of this hilly region. Keywords: Healthcare Quality, Patient Safety, Garhwal Division, Rural Healthcare, NABH Standards, Mixed-Methods Research.