A quality improvement process for implementing the Texas algorithm for schizophrenia in Ohio

Medication algorithms developed in Texas are being implemented in a number of states in the United States and internationally. This report describes a quality improvement process adapted from the Texas Medication Algorithm Project that was used to implement the Texas algorithm for schizophrenia in Ohio. A total of 38 physicians were surveyed about their perceptions of barriers to implementation of the guidelines. The physicians generally thought that the schizophrenia algorithm was good, current, and applicable. Although they did not perceive barriers to its implementation, they did not seem to alter their practices to a great extent in response to the algorithm. The results of the study may guide other states in their implementation of algorithms.