Introducing the quality Institute of the Cleveland Clinic Health System

Several quality measurement needs surfaced when the Cleveland Clinic Health System (CCHS) was formed, including a need for standardized measurement of clinical processes and outcomes, patient satisfaction, critical care, and patient safety. The Quality Institute (QI) facilitates system teams to address these issues, manages selection of measurement tools, collects and analyzes performance data, coordinates presentations, and presents team findings. The QI manages the CCHS performance improvement plan and coordinates activities designed to accomplish priority goals, in collaboration with multiple CCHS teams and the regional and hospital staffs. The most important outcome of the QI's operations is improved care, as demonstrated through objective measurement. Other outcomes include external recognition and funding; implementation of standardized measurement systems, data management activities, and production of quarterly reports; increased internal recognition; completion of several education programs; acceptance of data by payers and plans; and participation in attainment of Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations network accreditation.