Implementation of the Ottawa morbidity and mortality model improves the quality of morbidity and mortality rounds

To determine the effect of implementing the Ottawa morbidity and mortality (M&M) model (OM3) on the perceived quality of M&M rounds.

This was an observational study that included faculty, house officers, and staff, performed from September 2021 through June 2023, in conjunction with implementation of the OM3. A survey was emailed to participants at the beginning of the study period (PRE), at the end of the first academic year (POST-Y1), and at the end of the second academic year (POST-Y2). During the first year (September 2021 through May 2022), a separate survey to evaluate each individual session of rounds was emailed to participants. Categorical data are described using counts and percentages.

There were 67 participants in the PRE survey, 50 in the POST-Y1 survey, and 70 in the POST-Y2 survey. From PRE to POST-Y1, findings included (1) a 19% (22% PRE to POST-Y2) increase in "agree" responses when asked if M&M rounds had a significant impact on the quality of care they provide on a section/service level, (2) a 25% (13% PRE to POST-Y2) increase in the average percentage of M&M rounds thought to effectively address cognitive issues, and (3) a 25% (20% PRE to POST-Y2) increase in the average percentage of M&M rounds thought to effectively address systemic issues.

The implementation of the OM3 was perceived by respondents to improve patient care at the individual and service levels. Additionally, it more effectively addressed cognitive and systemic issues.

The OM3 is a straightforward and impactful M&M model to institute, and its implementation should be considered in other veterinary practices.