PAC3 Quality Improvement: Path 3

PAC³ Quality Improvement: Path 3

Intro to PAC3 QI
Path 1
Path 2
Network wide improvement projects

Network-Wide Improvement Work

  • Path 3 supports the mission of PAC³ by leveraging the wider network and registry data to produce large-scale improvement. Path 3 project cycles usually last between 18-24 months, with 12 months for the initial cohort and 6 additional months to spread or sustain the work. An additional 3-6 months should be anticipated for creation of a Spread Package and publication.
  • Path 3 projects require significant planning and project management time from PAC³ administration, quality improvement specialists, the data team and project leaders. These projects also require the involvement of an initial project lead/champion who is responsible for working with the PAC³ staff to develop a timeline, recruit centers, lead monthly webinars, provide updates/presentations at conferences/meetings, and ultimately write up the results.
  • The initial phase of Path 3 projects typically involves 6-9 centers, with an evaluation for broader implementation at 12 months. Path 3 projects are best identified through a rigorous process that includes examining outliers or best practices from the PAC³ registry or survey data, as well as reviewing successful Path 1 or Path 2 projects.
  • When evaluating Path 3 project ideas, PAC³ considers the project’s overall aims, timeline, required organizational support and resources, interest and participation from network centers, and the identification of an Executive Committee or QI leadership champion. This work is critical before recruiting centers to participate.
  • The initial cohort of centers is selected based on their ability to commit to the project and sustain data collection efforts. Introduction and onboarding webinars help manage data burden and clarify the scope of interventions for centers considering joining. Monthly webinars provide QI education, data updates and a platform for teams to discuss any issues.
  • The baseline data collection phase can take 1-3 months, depending on the project. This phase allows for the development of the data collection process, defining of measures and creation of possible interventions.
  • The intervention phase lasts 6-9 months supporting for the designing and testing of local adaptation of interventions.
  • Three historical examples: Hearts to Home Discharge Project, Chest Tube Project, Data Entry Efficiency Project