Concept Mapping as a Method to Engage Patients in Clinical Quality Improvement

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Patient Engagement Strategies
• Primary Care Improvement

Background:

• Patient engagement is a key priority in primary care research and practice.
• Limited guidance exists on effectively engaging patients in practice improvement initiatives.
• Measuring the impact of patient engagement on primary care outcomes remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present group concept mapping as a method for patient engagement in primary care practice improvement.
• To detail the group concept mapping process for use in research and evaluation.
• To provide resources for researchers and practice leaders to implement this tool.

Main Methods:

• Overview of group concept mapping methodology.
• Application of group concept mapping in a practice-based quality improvement project.
• Inclusion of patients and staff from a large urban academic primary care practice.

Main Results:

• Demonstration of group concept mapping as a feasible tool for patient involvement.
• Illustration of how patient input can guide practice improvement efforts.
• Successful application in a real-world primary care setting.

Conclusions:

• Group concept mapping is a valuable tool for enhancing patient engagement in primary care.
• This method facilitates collaborative practice improvement and evaluation.
• The presented resources can support the adoption of group concept mapping in diverse primary care settings.