Human factors systems approach to healthcare quality and patient safety

•The SEIPS model of work system and patient safety is a useful systems approach to healthcare quality and patient safety.•The SEIPS model can be used for research and improvement activities for improving healthcare quality and patient safety.•Balancing the work system is a key principle to improve healthcare quality and patient safety.

Human factors systems approaches are critical for improving healthcare quality and patient safety. The SEIPS (Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety) model of work system and patient safety is a human factors systems approach that has been successfully applied in healthcare research and practice. Several research and practical applications of the SEIPS model are described. Important implications of the SEIPS model for healthcare system and process redesign are highlighted. Principles for redesigning healthcare systems using the SEIPS model are described. Balancing the work system and encouraging the active and adaptive role of workers are key principles for improving healthcare quality and patient safety.