Ever since the start of the quality improvement movement, following the publication of Crossing the Quality Chasm at the turn of the century, the spread of the theories and methods of improvement and implementation science has been a challenge, writes Dr. Peter Lachman.
Firstly, Improvement and Implementation Science, like Patient Safety theory are not part of undergraduate or post graduate teaching to the extent they should be. The healthcare curriculum e.g. medical education focusses on the development of clinical expertise. Secondly, nor are they an integral part of the education programmes for healthcare manager and leaders As a result most leaders, managers and clinicians do not know how to improve care, despite wanting and being required to do so.
Therefore the spread of quality improvement has been patchy without clear evidence of sustainable uptake by healthcare professionals and workers. To address this challenge the OUP Handbook in Quality Improvement in Health care has been written to accompany the first two books in the professional practice series, the OUP Handbook of Patient Safety and the OUP Handbook on Medical Leadership and Management.
The handbook translates complex theory and methodology into understandable action. It is aimed at all who work in healthcare. For HMI readers it is important to note that most of the authors are Irish, being graduates of the RCPI QI Scholars in Residence programme. Most authors work in HSE facilities. The book should be in the pocket of every healthcare manager, doctor, nurse and allied professional so that care can be continually improved.
Copies are available here OUP Handbook of Quality Improvement in Healthcare.
