MPH2086 - Applying and Practicing the Principles of Patient Safety and Quality Improvement

Leader(s): Professor Joseph Ibrahim

Offered

Alfred Hospital Second semester 2009 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit provides students with the skills and knowledge to apply tools, techniques, programs or strategies to improve the quality of care and patient safety.

Objectives

By completion of the unit, the student will have:

1. An in-depth knowledge and ability to compare the key approaches to measuring, monitoring and managing health care for improving quality of care and patient safety;
2. An in-depth knowledge of the tools, techniques, programs and strategies currently used for improving quality of care and patient safety;
3. Demonstrate the skills to objectively critique the strengths and limitations of the different tool, technique, programs or strategy for improving quality of care and patient safety;
4. Demonstrate the ability to select an appropriate tool, technique, program or strategy for a
   1. particular dimension of quality (i.e. safety, efficacy, timelines, patient-centre-ed),
   2. clinical setting,
   3. patient population and
   4. is logistically feasible;
5. Demonstrate the skills to modify, implement and evaluate a tool, technique, program or strategy for improving quality of care and patient safety in the workplace;
6. Understand and manage the factors that impact on the selection, acceptance and sustainability of initiative for improving quality of care and patient safety. These factors include clinician behaviour, organisational and health system structures.

Assessment

Critical appraisal (500 words)(30%)
Reflective assignment (1500 words)(30%)
Class participation (40%)

Contact hours

Off-campus students:

12 hours per week, broken doen into (on average) 4 hours per week for reading core material, 4 hours per week completing exercises (manual, computer-based, or online), 2 hours per week for online communication via MUSO discussions, and 2 hours per week for assignment preparation.

Off-campus attendance requirements

There will be a two day block teaching session duing the semester (approx 15 hours worth) based at DEPM on the Alfred Hospital Campus.