A novel approach to implementation of quality and safety programmes in anaesthesiology

Far too many patients suffer preventable harm from medical errors that add to needless suffering and cost of care. Underdeveloped residency training programmes in patient safety are a major contributor to preventable harm. Consequently, the Institute of Medicine has called for health professionals to reform their educational programmes to advance health-care safety and quality. Additionally, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) now requires education in 'systems-based practice' and 'practice-based learning and improvement' as core competencies of residency training programmes. The specific aim of this article is to describe the implementation of a novel programme designed to enhance residency education, meet ACGME core competencies and improve quality and safety education in one residency programme at an academic medical institution.