Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

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

Letter to the editor (500 words)(20%)
Reflective assignment ( 2000 words)(30%)
Class participation (50%)

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Joseph Ibrahim

Contact hours

12 hours per week, broken down 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

15 hours over 2 block days.

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at:

http://www.med.monash.edu.au/epidemiology/pgrad