The Institute of Medicine (IOM) defines quality in health care as “a direct correlation between the level of improved health services and the desired health outcomes of individuals and populations” (A Strategy for Quality Assurance. IOM. Natl Acad Press. Washington DC,1990). Paul Batalden et al. define quality in healthcare as “the changes that will lead to better patient outcomes (health), better system performance (care) and better professional development (learning)” (Qual Saf Health Care 2007;16:2–3). Quality improvement (QI) consists of systematic and continuous actions that lead to measurable improvement in health care services and the health status of targeted populations.  

In other words, it’s an attitude mindset, and skill set that is geared towards improvement in care delivery processes, outcomes, clinical and business operations, and cost.

It aligns well with Institute of HealthCare Improvement’s approach to optimizing health system performance as defined by the Quadruple Aim by enhancing patient experience, improving population health, reducing costs, and improving the work life of health care providers, including clinicians and staff. Health systems are increasingly recognizing the central role QI expertise can play in daily functions and efficiencies.

Integrating QI into your Practice and Career will focus on QI from the perspectives of physicians early in their career to those in senior leadership, including leadership development, clinical efficiencies, and improving the chronic care delivery system. Practical examples of specific projects in different areas of gastroenterology care will be discussed, including the identification of nutritional deficiencies, and mitigation strategies, and chronic disease management. Research opportunities in QI as a career focus and grant funding will also be highlighted.