Implementing Obstetrics Quality Improvement, Driven by Medico-legal Risk, is Associated With Improved Workplace...

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Quality Improvement
• Medical-Legal Risk Management
• Obstetrics and Gynecology

Background:

• Healthcare settings face challenges in optimizing workplace culture and mitigating medico-legal risks.
• Quality improvement (QI) programs can be tailored to address specific clinical needs and risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement a QI program in obstetrics, focusing on medico-legal risk.
• To evaluate the program's effect on the workplace culture within an obstetrical unit.

Main Methods:

• Needs assessments and the Safety, Communication, Operational Reliability, and Engagement (SCORE) survey were used.
• Three QI projects were co-developed based on local needs and medico-legal data.
• Training in QI science and coaching for project leads were provided.

Main Results:

• Post-intervention, improvements were observed in teamwork, learning environment, and safety climate.
• Provider burnout levels remained high.
• The program was highly rated, with qualitative improvements noted in most projects.

Conclusions:

• The QI intervention demonstrated positive changes in workplace culture in obstetrics.
• Lessons learned can guide future QI initiatives in healthcare settings.