Measurement and Monitoring of Safety Framework: a qualitative study of implementation through a Canadian learning...

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Patient Safety
• Organizational Change

Background:

• The Measurement and Monitoring of Safety Framework (MMSF) aims to broaden healthcare safety beyond measurement and past incidents.
• Limited evidence currently exists on the implementation and impact of the MMSF.
• This study addresses the need for understanding the practical application of the MMSF.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore participants' perspectives and experiences with implementing the MMSF.
• To understand the adaptive work involved in MMSF implementation within diverse Canadian healthcare settings.
• To increase comprehension of the MMSF's practical application and challenges.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study was conducted within a learning collaborative program.
• Involved 11 teams from seven Canadian provinces.
• Data collection included interviews with 36 participants, site and learning session observations, and document analysis.

Main Results:

• Collaborative sessions facilitated exploration of safety concepts beyond past harm and measurement-focused approaches.
• Participants emphasized the need for stakeholder engagement and dedicated time for MMSF concept discussion before implementation.
• Teams experimented with integrating MMSF into various practices, reporting shifts in safety thinking, discussions, and behaviors, but faced challenges with broad sharing, deep implementation, and alignment with existing processes.

Conclusions:

• The MMSF necessitates a significant shift from traditional, measurement-focused safety strategies.
• Successful MMSF implementation requires substantial discussion, coaching, and experimentation.
• Future efforts should involve local leaders, coaches, and an organizational/systemic approach for wider reach and sustained change.