Developing a trustworthy quality improvement framework
Aims
To develop a dynamic and facilitated quality improvement (QI) project framework within Solent NHS Trust for doctors-in-training to improve junior doctor engagement with quality and service improvement projects.
Methods
The NHS is currently showing a gradual shift towards further quality and service improvement projects and we highlighted the trust's need for improved support for doctors-in-training. The requirement for a quality improvement project (QIP) to be mandated as a part of all trainees’ portfolio indicated a need for the trust to provide facilitation and support in the process.
The chief registrar-led project involved evaluation of prior facilities and support for doctors requesting to lead or involve themselves in a QIP. This included investigation of other trusts’ experience in implementing similar frameworks. The trust commenced offering training and educational opportunities to newly inducted doctors with optional drop-in sessions as support. Project registration was also included to provide ease of communication with a plan for future project database creation.
Results
The number of QIPs at 6 months increased from none to five doctor-led projects. This equated to over a quarter of the trust's doctors-in-training being involved in a QIP. Two of the QIPs were presented at a trust showcase event. One of the QIPs showed a very conservative cost saving of £40,000 when taking staff time only into consideration. This number of projects continues to grow as each new cohort of doctors-in-training takes on new QIPs with QI team assistance.
Conclusion
Continued QIP support and education is to be introduced to all newly inducted doctors. Eventual project database would be available on the junior doctor intranet page. The results of future QIPs could be used to calculate cost savings for the trust. The initial QIP framework was targeted towards doctors-in-training but after further consultation with the consultant team it was to be rolled out to any interested doctors working within Solent NHS Trust.
Conflict of interest statement
No conflict of interest.
- © Royal College of Physicians 2019. All rights reserved.
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