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Partnering with physicians to achieve quality improvement

A C Conway1, R B Keller, D E Wennberg

  • 1Maine Medical Assessment Foundation, Augusta 04330, USA.

The Joint Commission Journal on Quality Improvement
|November 1, 1995
PubMed
Summary

Physician study groups effectively improve medical practices by analyzing data and sharing findings. This educational model, the Outcomes Dissemination Project, is adaptable for broader use.

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Area of Science:

  • Healthcare Quality Improvement
  • Medical Education
  • Physician Practice Patterns

Background:

  • The Maine Medical Assessment Foundation (MMAF) engaged physicians in study groups to analyze practice variation and decision-making.
  • The MMAF model was expanded to a tri-state area (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont) in 1991 through the Outcomes Dissemination Project.
  • This initiative received funding from the U.S. Agency for Health Care Policy and Research.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess physician decision-making patterns and practice variation.
  • To disseminate findings and promote quality improvement among physicians.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of a collaborative, educational approach to medical practice improvement.

Main Methods:

  • Five specialty study groups met biannually to review utilization data, guidelines, and research.
  • Physicians participated in outcomes studies and patient education initiatives.
  • Findings were disseminated through presentations and feedback mechanisms within specialty societies.

Main Results:

  • Physicians demonstrated willingness to modify practices within culturally sensitive improvement programs.
  • Collaboration between related specialties (e.g., internal medicine, family practice) proved effective.
  • The involvement of respected clinical leaders enhanced the credibility of the MMAF methods.

Conclusions:

  • The Outcomes Dissemination Project serves as a robust educational process.
  • The MMAF model is a successful framework for replication in other regions.
  • Non-punitive, educational quality improvement efforts are effective in medicine.

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