Quality Improvement Of Health Care Systems

Quality Improvement Of Health Care Systems

Abstract
As consumers, payers, and regulatory agencies require evidence regarding health care quality, the demand for process of care measures will grow. Although outcome measures of quality represent the desired end results of health care, validated process of care measures provide an important additional element to quality improvement efforts, as they illuminate exactly which provider actions could be changed to improve patient outcomes. In this essay, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of process measures of quality, and outline some practical strategies and issues in implementing them.
Introduction
Total Quality Management is a participative, systematic approach to planning and implementing a continuous organizational improvement process.   Its approach is focused on satisfying customers’ expectations, identifying problems, building commitment, and promoting open decision-making among workers.   TQM applies analytical tools, such as flow and statistical charts and check sheets, to gather data about activities with an organization.   TQM uses process techniques, such as normal groups, brainstorming, and consensus forming to facilitate communication and decision-making.
Pursuing Quality
The decision making process for Quality Improvement should be institutionalized in such a way that there is open participation. QI should include not only health professionals, but workers and patients as well. Accepting and adapting to the changes that result from QI require trust and transparency of process. The values and goals that drive the process should be clear to patients, workers, and health professionals. The HCO needs to accept the fact that health-care workers, health professionals, and patients are all stakeholders and that their involvement in QI should have institutional support. (P.H. Werhane, 2000) Support involves providing resources, release time, and appropriate recognition in annual performance evaluations. As a managerial responsibility, QI...