Which agency focuses on the prevention of medication errors and promotes safe medical practices?

The Institute for Safe Medical Practice (ISMP) is the agency that specifically focuses on the prevention of medication errors and the promotion of safe medical practices. This organization plays a vital role in enhancing the safety of medication use by analyzing medication errors, disseminating information about drug safety, and providing education and recommendations to healthcare professionals.

While the other organizations listed have important roles within the healthcare system, their focus areas differ significantly from that of ISMP. The FDA primarily regulates the safety and efficacy of medications and medical devices rather than focusing directly on preventing medication errors. The American Pharmacists Association works to advance the practice of pharmacy and support pharmacists, and the National Institutes of Health conducts and supports medical research with a broader health focus. Thus, ISMP’s dedicated effort towards medication safety and error prevention distinctly qualifies it as the agency most aligned with the question’s objective.