Performance Improvement: A Multidisciplinary Approach

The quality assurance department developed a system for tracking quality indicators in every department of the hospital. The quality indicators are reported on a scheduled basis to the performance improvement committee and from there to the medical executive committee and the board of trustees. Information is disseminated up and down the system so that ideas and information flows smoothly and improvements are easily tracked and outcomes addressed in a timely manner.

This case study is part of the Illinois Hospital Association's annual quality awards. Each year, IHA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Illinois hospitals in continually improving and transforming health care in the state. These hospitals are improving health by striving to achieve the Triple Aim--improving the patient experience of care (including quality and satisfaction); improving the health of populations; and reducing the per capita cost of health care.

Award recipients achieve measurable and meaningful progress in providing care that is:

• Safe
• Timely
• Effective
• Efficient
• Equitable
• Patient-centered

(The Institute of Medicine's six aims for improvement.)