Overview
In 2001, the prestigious Institute of Medicine wrote a report called, “Crossing the Quality Chasm: A New Health System for the 21st Century.” This report lays out a comprehensive strategy for government, health care providers, industry and consumers to reduce preventable medical errors. In the report, the IOM identified health care’s goals in providing care that is:
- Safe
- Effective
- Patient-centered
- Timely
- Efficient
- Equitable (not varied due to gender, ethnicity, geography or socioeconomic status).
IOM’s report caused more health care organizations to commit to providing safer, better and more efficient patient care. Look over this Web site to find out how the University of Michigan Health System is leading the way . . . and always looking for ways to make things even better.
What is quality?
UMHS defines “quality” in a multidimensional manner, encompassing the Six Aims outlined in the Institute of Medicine's 2001 Report. Good “quality” means providing patients with appropriate services in a technically competent manner, with good communication, shared decision making and cultural sensitivity. UMHS is committed to providing the highest quality health care by focusing on providing “value” as defined by our patients and customers, and involving the staff and faculty who are closest to the work. The Continuous Quality Improvement Program (internal audience only) exists to build organizational excellence by providing a platform for working together to meet and/or exceed the expectations of those we serve.
What is safety?
At UMHS, "safety" refers to managing the risk of injury, property damage and adverse outcomes for patients, staff and visitors stemming from the delivery or environment of care. We strive to deliver excellent care in a safe environment. Our Patient Safety Program, as defined in our patient safety plan (PDF), uses a systematic, coordinated and continuous approach to improving patient safety. This approach involves responding effectively to actual occurrences and hazardous conditions, looking at ways to prevent medical/health care errors before they occur and integrating patient safety priorities into the design of all relevant organizational operations. The University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers’ Environment of Care Plans (internal audience only) describe our strategy for providing a safe, healthful, functional and customer-oriented environment. This is accomplished by managing all aspects of environmental safety including fire safety, smoking, equipment, utilities, emergency response, security, hazardous materials and waste management.
