Examples Of Quality Improvement In Health Care

Quality improvement interventions in health care system

Introduction

Quality improvement is defined as systematic and uninterrupted actions that lead to measurable progress in health care services and the health status of targeted population/patient. it can also be defined as a direct correlation between the level of improved health services and the desired health outcomes of individuals and Quality is precisely associated to an organization 's service delivery method.

Aims for Healthcare Quality Improvement

The aim of quality improvement in health care system includes:-

1. To provide safe care to patient so as to avoid injuries related to poor planning or poor quality of care.

2. To provide effective services based on scientific knowledge

Whether an organization is seeking to improve patient wait times, telephone service, diabetes care, or other goals it deems important, a team effort helps an organization to achieve significant and lasting improvements.

It is the responsibility of each individual to be an active and contributing member of the team. Each person on a team brings a distinctive perspective to the process; i.e., how things work; what happens when changes are made, and how to carry on improvements during daily work. Contributions are made from each individual 's skill set and the team 's synthesis of ideas.

Focus on Use of the Data

Data is the cornerstone of quality improvement. It is used to illustrate how well current systems are working; what happens when changes are applied, and to document successful performance. Using data:

 Separates what is thought to be happening from what is really happening

 Establishes a

 Improved efficiency of managerial and clinical processes. By improving processes and outcomes relevant to high-priority health needs, an organization reduces waste and costs associated with system failures and redundancy. Often quality improvement processes are budget-neutral, where the costs to create the changes are offset by the cost savings incurred.

 Avoided costs related with process failures, errors, and poor outcomes. Costs are incurred when nonstandard and inefficient systems increase errors and cause rework. Streamlined and reliable processes are less expensive to maintain.

 Proactive processes that identify and solve problems before they occur ensure that systems of care are reliable and predictable. A culture of improvement frequently develops in an organization that is committed to quality, because errors are reported and addressed.

 Improved communication with resources that are internal and external to an organization, such as, funders, civic and community organizations. A commitment to quality shines a positive light on an organization, which may result in an increase of partnership and funding opportunities. When successfully implemented, a quality improvement infrastructure often enhances communication and resolves critical