The Official Journal of the
National Association for Healthcare Quality

How Unusual are the "Unusual Events" Detected by Control Chart Techniques in Healthcare Settings? Jeffrey J. Borckardt, Michael R. Nash, Susan Hardesty, Joan Herbert, Harriet Cooney, Christopher Pelic

Abstract: Statistical process control (SPC) methods have been successfully used in industrial settings to track product quality, but problems may arise when SPC methods are used to evaluate human behavior. This article demonstrates the negative impact of autocorrelation on traditional SPC methods and focuses on the use of SPC charts to detect unusual events.

Construct Validation of a Physician Satisfaction Survey Robert J. Wolosin, Sabina B. Gesell, Brian Taber, Gladys J. Epting

Abstract: Hospitals continuously look for ways to improve patient care and retain high-quality physicians, and research indicates that physicians' satisfaction with where they practice plays a crucial role. This study developed and validated a self-administered medical staff satisfaction survey.

Using Quality Improvement to Enhance Research Readiness in Palliative Care Kelli J. Stajduhar, Darcee Bidgood, Leah Norgrove, Diane Allan, Shelly Waskiewich

Abstract: Two quality improvement initiatives undertaken by a palliative care program in Canada acted as a catalyst to enhance research readiness. The authors concluded that data and the development of a culture of inquiry can enhance research readiness and thus the quality of care provided to patients and their families at teh end of life.

Interview with a Quality Leader: Mikel Harry on Six Sigma in Healthcare
Carole S. Guinane

Abstract: Mikel Harry, author of Six Sigma: The Management Strategy Revolutionizing the World's Top Corporations, is widely recognized as the "father of Six Sigma."

How Do Patients Perceive Electronic Documentation at the Bedside?
R. Vico Dagnone, Rosemary Wilson, David H. Goldstein, John Murdoch, Michael J. Rimmer, Elizabeth G. VanDenKerkhof

Abstract: Access to real-time patient information and documentation at the bedside has the potential to improve healthcare quality. This study obtained patients' views on how the use of portable computers at the bedside affected the clinician-patient interaction.

The Declining Rate of Avoidable Hospitalizations in the Veterans Health Administration
Elizabeth Bass, Etienne Pracht

Abstract: Most research shows a lower rate of avoidable hospitalization associated with better access to outpatient care. Such findings have important implications for the Veterans Health Administration.

Developing a Simpler Measure of Diabetes Care Quailty
Yelena Selektor, Jigishu Dhabuwala, Kareem Bazzy, Tarik Hanane, Wilhemine Wiese-Rometsch, Anupam Goel

Abstract: A diabetes care quality summary score was found to provide easier interpretation of diabetes quality than selected Diabetes Quality Improvement Project measures of care in an urban Medicaid healthcare maintenance organization population.

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JHQ Web Exclusives

Team Triage: Assessing Challenges in Emergency Department Flow
Michael R. Baumann, Tania D. Strout

Quality Toolbox: Minimizing Potential Error--The Accuracy of the Chemotherapy Order Documentation Audit Tool
Shelley Scharping, Diane Kammer

q&a: Todd Seto and the Center for Best Health Practices
Deborah Flores

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