A structured framework for improving outbreak investigation audits.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Quality Improvement

Background:

• Outbreak investigation is critical for public health agencies.
• Suboptimal investigations risk public health and agency reputation.
• Public health agencies underutilize structured audits for outbreak response quality improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and trial a framework for auditing public health outbreak investigations.
• To identify areas for improvement in outbreak response processes.
• To enhance the systematic quality improvement of outbreak investigations.

Main Methods:

• Developed a framework for prioritizing audits, conducting audits, and audit trigger questions.
• Trialled the framework in four foodborne and one respiratory disease outbreak in Australia.
• Collected participant feedback on the audit process and methodology.

Main Results:

• Identified needs for clear roles/responsibilities, improved inter-agency communication, and performance standards (especially timeliness).
• Participants found the audit process clear, useful, and non-threatening.
• Audit duration (2-3 hours) was considered efficient but potentially limited scope by some.

Conclusions:

• The audit framework was acceptable and improved clarity and partnerships.
• Recommendations include broader stakeholder feedback, audit quality assessment, and training development.
• Incorporating measurable performance criteria is key for standardizing outbreak investigation audits and quality improvement.