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Using Statistical Process Control through the Making Data Count approach to visualise data in NHS Trusts: a
Nicholas Kroll1, Henry W W Potts2
1Business Intelligence, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK n.kroll@nhs.net.
BMJ Leader
|February 10, 2026
Summary
Hospital board members find Statistical Process Control (SPC) charts valuable for monitoring performance, but require more training to prevent misuse. The Making Data Count (MDC) programme effectively supports quality improvement initiatives.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Management
- Quality Improvement Science
- Data Analytics in Healthcare
Background:
- National Health Service (NHS) Trust board members are responsible for high-quality care and performance.
- Integrated performance reports and Statistical Process Control (SPC) charts aid in monitoring key performance indicators.
- The Making Data Count (MDC) Programme promotes SPC methodology within NHS Trusts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore board members' experiences with the MDC Programme and SPC.
- To assess the utilization of SPC charts in public board meetings for assurance and decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Conducted 14 semistructured interviews with executive and non-executive directors across five NHS Trusts.
- Observed 13 board meetings and extracted quantitative data to evaluate SPC output support for decision-making.
Main Results:
- Board members viewed MDC and SPC positively as tools for monitoring interventions and performance.
- Identified issues with insufficient training and instances of SPC chart misuse or overuse.
- 72% of board member statements were supported by relevant SPC charts; 6 decisions for further investigation were all SPC-supported.
Conclusions:
- MDC SPC charts are effective tools in the board environment, supporting assurance and decision-making.
- Consistent and repetitive training is crucial to optimize SPC use and prevent misuse.
- Managerial tendencies to demonstrate improvement may partially override optimal SPC chart application.
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