Quality Improvement Tools and Processes

The Model for Improvement is a popular, easy-to-use method of systematically and successfully implementing a quality improvement project. The problem is defined by scoping the current state and describing the existing quality gap. This may be accomplished by performing a literature review, using the 5 Whys tool, flowchart, fishbone diagram, root cause analysis, or failure modes effect analysis. The Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle is done successively with small tests of change until process improvement is accomplished; the final set of recommendations can then be implemented on a larger scale throughout the institution and health care system, resulting in greater gains.