Putting improvement in everyone's hands: opening up healthcare improvement by simplifying, supporting and refocusing on core purpose

Putting improvement in everyone's hands: opening up healthcare improvement by simplifying, supporting and refocusing on core purpose (British Journal of Healthcare Management, February 2021)

Summary:

This article provides a framework to help healthcare organisations successfully implement quality improvement (QI). It addresses common barriers and offers practical solutions.

The 3 key components:

• Simplify:

  • Focus on the similarities between different QI methods, rather than getting bogged down in jargon and specific tools.

  • Use clear, simple language when teaching and discussing QI.

• Support:

  • Provide expert QI coaching and mentoring to teams.

  • Use adult learning principles to make training relevant and engaging.

• Purpose:

  • Focus QI efforts on what matters most to patients and staff.

  • Empower teams to choose their own QI projects.

  • Involve patients and families as equal partners in all QI work.

By following this framework, healthcare organisations can create a culture where everyone feels empowered to improve care.

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