A two-level EFQM self-assessment in an Italian hospital

An assessment of the EFQM excellence model was carried out in Italy's Udine Hospital, aimed at evaluating how first and second-level managers perceived their hospital and individual departments. The study objectives also included identifying strengths and areas requiring improvement and stimulating a quality culture.

Udine's S. Maria della Misericordia Hospital is a large specialised unit in North East Italy and similar to many regional hospitals throughout the country. The survey is a single case study of the hospital and its ten clinical departments. A 153-item questionnaire was completed by 201 experienced respondents.

Leadership, policy and strategy, partnership and resources were rated highly, whereas people, society and customer results received lower ratings. Several improvement actions were planned, primarily with regard to the results criteria.

A two-level self-assessment was successfully carried out in a hospital, giving insight into the organisation's strengths and areas requiring improvement. Through the study, a systemic approach was introduced and quality awareness was heightened.

The findings are useful for other hospitals conducting EFQM self-assessment.