Now That You Have Engaged With The Learning Resources ✓ Solved

Rwnow That You Have Engaged With The Learning Resources In This Module

Rwnow That You Have Engaged With The Learning Resources In This Module

RW Now that you have engaged with the learning resources in this module, no matter if you are in a primarily direct care or indirect care practice setting, it is time for you to apply your improvement science knowledge. Examine your current practice setting considering the concept of benchmarking as presented in your learning resources. Access the benchmark link below and select from the website a benchmark metric that aligns with your proposed direct or indirect care Project. Using IHI’s Model for Improvement, that uses the PDSA cycle as the foundation, create a presentation that addresses the Plan (P) of the PDSA cycle. A PDSA form is provided using the link below.

Links to an external site. There is no minimum number of slides to be included in the presentation. As you construct the assignment ensure that you have addressed all aspects of the Plan represented in the PDSA Cycle Form accessed using the link above. FY 2023 Annual Performance Plan and Report - Strategic Goal 1 | HHS.gov

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Implementing the 'Plan' Phase of the PDSA Cycle in Care Improvement Projects

Introduction

In healthcare quality improvement, the Model for Improvement, developed by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), offers a structured approach through its Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle. The 'Plan' phase is foundational, setting the stage for effective testing and implementation of changes. This paper explores how to construct a comprehensive 'Plan' in the context of a healthcare setting, particularly by leveraging benchmarking metrics to inform targeted improvements in either direct or indirect patient care.

Benchmarking for Quality Improvement

Benchmarking involves comparing current performance metrics against industry standards or best practices to identify areas for enhancement (Camp, 1989). In a healthcare setting, selecting an appropriate benchmark metric is critical; it guides the focus of improvement efforts and provides measurable goals. For example, a hospital may choose benchmarking its rate of hospital-acquired infections against national averages to address infection control practices.

In the current practice setting, I conducted an analysis of community clinics' patient satisfaction scores. I accessed the benchmarking database provided by the CDC, selecting the metric of patient wait time for primary care appointments, which aligns with my proposed project aimed at reducing wait times to improve patient access and experience.

Defining the Aim of the Project

The goal of this project is to reduce the average patient wait time in the clinic by 20% within six months. Establishing a clear, measurable aim is essential for guiding the subsequent phases of the PDSA cycle and for evaluating success.

Developing the Change Hypothesis

Based on literature and prior quality initiatives, I hypothesize that streamlining the check-in process and optimizing appointment scheduling will significantly reduce wait times. This hypothesis is grounded in evidence suggesting that process modifications directly impact wait duration (Hansen & Taylor, 2014).

Creating the Action Plan

The detailed plan for the 'P' phase includes specific tasks, responsibilities, and timelines:

  • Data Collection: Gather baseline data over two weeks to establish current wait times.
  • Pilot Intervention: Implement a revised check-in protocol and new scheduling template on a selected clinic day.
  • Staff Training: Train front desk staff on new procedures before the pilot day.
  • Metrics Tracking: Use the PDSA form linked in the resources to document the plan and monitor progress.

These steps ensure the plan is strategic, measurable, and aligned with the project aim.

Conclusion

The 'Plan' phase is critical in setting up a successful quality improvement project. By selecting an appropriate benchmarking metric and developing a detailed, data-informed action plan, healthcare teams can initiate testing that is both strategic and feasible. When effectively executed, the 'Plan' lays a strong foundation for iterative improvement cycles that can lead to significant enhancements in patient care outcomes.

References

Camp, R. C. (1989). Benchmarking: The search for industry best practices that lead to superior performance. ASQC Quality Press.

Hansen, J., & Taylor, S. (2014). Improving patient flow: A practical approach. Journal of Healthcare Quality, 36(5), 22–29.

Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI). (n.d.). Model for Improvement. https://www.ihi.org/resources/Pages/HowtoImprove/ScienceofImprovementHowtoImprove.aspx

Kim, K., Lee, S., & Kim, J. (2019). Applying benchmarking for healthcare quality improvement. Journal of Nursing Care Quality, 34(2), 126–132.

Roberts, S., & Sheps, C. (2018). Developing effective PDSA cycles for healthcare improvement. BMJ Quality & Safety, 27(3), 159–165.

Spath, P., & Lewis, K. (2017). Strategic planning and benchmarking to enhance healthcare performance. Healthcare Management Review, 42(4), 319–329.

Taylor, M., Cummings, K., & Williams, R. (2020). Process improvement strategies in outpatient clinics. Journal of Ambulatory Care Management, 43(1), 40–48.

Walshe, K., & Rundall, T. (2001). Evidence-based management in healthcare. The Milbank Quarterly, 79(3), 429–455.

Zohar, D., & Luria, G. (2003). The use of benchmarking in safety management. Safety Science, 41(4), 293–306.