Implementation of a continuous quality improvement process in a free-standing hemodialysis unit

This report details the transition we made from a quality assurance program to a continuous quality improvement process. We were frustrated by the failure of traditional quality assurance programs to unify the staff toward goals and objectives that would improve our quality and reduce our costs. The change has take 2 years, and a substantial time and financial commitment. We report the progress we have made so far and the problems we have encountered. We also review how we trained our staff, selected our projects, and formed our teams. The mistakes we made are discussed, as well as strategies to avoid such mistakes.