Program-based quality assurance: a reconciliation of quality assurance and program evaluation

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Quality Improvement
• Program Evaluation Methodologies

Background:

• Current quality assurance (QA) principles and programs exhibit significant shortcomings.
• Existing systems face valid criticisms regarding their effectiveness and efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the deficiencies in current QA practices.
• To explore program evaluation (PE) theories for potential solutions.
• To develop and present a conceptual model for program-based QA.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of existing quality assurance (QA) principles.
• Application of program evaluation (PE) theories.
• Development of a conceptual model integrating QA and PE.

Main Results:

• A conceptual model for program-based quality assurance (QA) has been developed.
• Examples illustrating the application of program-based QA are provided.
• The study highlights the utility of a well-designed QA program.

Conclusions:

• A program-based approach offers a viable strategy to enhance quality assurance.
• Implementing a properly designed QA program can effectively address systemic criticisms.
• The integration of program evaluation principles strengthens QA frameworks.