UHC chooses 8 model QI department designs
UHC chooses 8 model QI department designs
There are several ways to build a successful quality improvement program, according to a recent report by the University Health Consortium (UHC) in Oak Brook, IL. To identify and share information about the most effective models, the group surveyed its members and evaluated their models. Criteria included the level of integration and coordination across programs, quality of leadership, program effectiveness, information systems and data capturing capability, and resources to support quality functions.
On average, each respondent reported having seven different departments responsible for quality functions. The most commonly reported quality functions included preparing for accreditation by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, performing statistical analyses, leading and facilitating teams, measuring outcomes, and overseeing quality projects. Most respondents have a primary department responsible for quality-related services. For 73% of the institutions, the current model emerged from a redesign during the past year.
Based on their quality model design and integrated structure, the eight selected for featuring in case studies are: Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC; Emory University System of Health Care, Atlanta; The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center; Indiana University Medical Center, Indianapolis; Medical Center at University of California, San Francisco; and Stanford Health Services, Palo Alto, CA.
These are the success factors reported by the top models:
· clinician leadership, participation and buy-in;
· information systems to support quality;
· administrative leadership;
· organizational culture supporting improvement;
· marketplace changes;
· employment of the right staff in the quality structure;
· program integration.
[For more information, contact the UHC at (630) 954-1700, and look for profiles of these programs in future issues.]
Subscribe Now for Access
You have reached your article limit for the month. We hope you found our articles both enjoyable and insightful. For information on new subscriptions, product trials, alternative billing arrangements or group and site discounts please call 800-688-2421. We look forward to having you as a long-term member of the Relias Media community.