The National Improvement Network Collaborative (NINCo) plays a pivotal role in enhancing Quality Improvement (QI) capability within Primary Health Networks (PHNs). Based on the NINCo work plan for 2022-2023 a training program has been designed in collaboration with Prestantia Health and the Institute of Healthcare Improvement (IHI). This teamwork aims to lead the way in developing a unified approach to QI across the PHN network.
The key objective of the Quality Improvement training program is to support the development of a national approach to general practice quality improvement. The initiative seeks to redefine perceptions of QI, emphasizing its innovative value by seamlessly incorporating it into the core business. This approach is geared towards improving general practice productivity and elevating the quality of care provided to patients.
As part of this initiative, NINCo has launched two impactful learning programs: “Peak Practice – Elevating Healthcare Improvement” and “Improvement Science in Action.” These programs are designed to equip PHN staff with essential QI methodologies, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within their practices.
To ensure the fidelity of QI language and methodology, but also the sustainability and long-term impact of the project, both educational programs are hosted on NINCo’s Learning Management System (LMS).
NINCo is dedicated to empowering Primary Health Networks (PHNs) with the knowledge and tools necessary to foster impactful changes, enhance healthcare quality, and ultimately elevate patient outcomes throughout the network. Our primary objectives revolve around supporting Quality Improvement (QI) initiatives, delivering quality-assured resources, and establishing a robust foundation for QI among general practice and PHN audiences. Join us in our mission to drive meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery and outcomes across the board.
To successfully drive improvement in primary care, it is crucial to have a clear vision that encourages commitment and ensures access to resources across the sector. The strategy calls for widespread communication, a universal language for modern primary care, and a transformation of QI perceptions. The main goals include offering quality-assured resources, advocating for the cause, and creating a foundation for QI within internal Primary Health Networks (PHN) and general practice audiences.
A foundational learning program Peak Practice: Elevating Healthcare Improvement QI 101 by Prestantia Health has been developed as a key initiative to achieve the goals. This program will focus on QI methodology, articulating the value proposition, and exploring real-practice case studies. The aim is to equip the workforce with a universal understanding of QI terminology and methodologies. The project seeks to provide a general overview of quality improvement in the context of primary healthcare.
To facilitate learning, an asset map and co-designed curriculum have been developed, providing a comprehensive understanding of QI, along with standard templates for a four-hour basic QI skills course. These resources are seamlessly integrated into our Learning Management System (LMS), ensuring accessibility for PHN staff and general practices. The intention is to establish a robust and ongoing legacy program, serving as a universal foundation for learning across the board.
Upon completion of the QI 101 modules, participants gain a thorough understanding of Quality Improvement. They acquire the skills to articulate the benefits of QI, employ key improvement methods, identify factors that support successful initiatives, confidently use QI language, share insights through case studies, wisely apply essential QI tools, and assess areas for improvement. This knowledge empowers them to actively contribute to QI efforts, promoting a culture of continuous improvement in their professional domains.
Twelve short learning modules (15 – 20 minutes long) will be developed and released on a rolling basis. Informed by feedback from PHN staff and co-design activities undertaken with NINCo members, the learning journey will encompass:
The participants will receive a certificate at the end of the four-hour course which can be used to showcase their induction / professional development plan.
Join us on this transformative journey towards elevating healthcare quality and driving meaningful change in primary care settings.
ISIA for Primary Care is an 8-month virtual program designed to equip PHN staff with the knowledge and skills to facilitate primary care transformation. Led by IHI, ISIA for Primary Care focuses on building the capability to apply evidence-based quality improvement methods. The curriculum covers topics such as systems thinking, establishing teams, setting aims, generating and testing ideas for change, and measurement for improvement. The program is comprised of our virtual workshops, combining brief lectures with interactive group exercises, and regular action period calls are held throughout to support shared learning amongst fellow participants.
With 62 participants (2 per PHN), ISIA for Primary Care utilises project-based learning to support skill development. The program will be recorded and made available to its participants on the LMS to support ongoing training and to ensure the program’s legacy. Participants will be provided with certification of completion at the program’s conclusion. This in-depth program enables PHN staff to partner with primary care teams to improve operational effectiveness and enhance patient outcomes.
ISIA for Primary Care course content includes:
Introducing NINCo’s Learning Management System (LMS), an innovative platform designed to consolidate QI learning materials, offer standardized training, and advance skill development for healthcare professionals and staff. The LMS aims to empower users with a simplified, standardized approach to QI while promoting continuous learning and collaboration.
Join us on this transformative journey towards healthcare excellence with NINCo’s Learning hub for Healthcare Excellence:
Download the NINCo LMS FAQ Sheet here
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