Improving the quality of health care involves many factors.
Probably the most commonly discussed enabler of quality is data and the associated issues about quantity, type, accuracy, etc. The role of standards and guidelines are also often referenced. And let’s not forget patient and public partnering as a critical element in quality improvement.
One element that has not had as much attention is the role of leadership. From local quality improvement (QI) efforts to broad system efforts, leadership is a key element needed to enable and sustain quality improvement. To this end QI training programs like IDEAS includes leadership as a component of the curriculum and in the United States, the Institute of Health Care Improvement has a CEO leadership alliance focused on health care.
Quality Improvement (QI) is science, not magic, and should be taught with the frequency and rigour of any scientific discipline in healthcare. Teaching Quality Improvement is not a straightforward matter but must be done, and done right, if we want to see the healthcare system improve.
In a province where so many people are dedicated to improving health care quality in innovative ways how can Health Quality Ontario provide real support for these individuals?
One answer among many – build a platform of online tools to encourage those committed to quality improvement (QI) to network and share best practices.
Welcome to Quorum.
Conscious efforts to make care more equitable are happening every day in Ontario’s health system.
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Moving from good to excellent in the delivery of quality health care is a journey that will never end – better has no limit.