Quality improvement in public health emergency preparedness

Annu Rev Public Health. 2007:28:19-31. doi: 10.1146/annurev.publhealth.28.082206.094104.

Abstract

Quality improvement (QI) methods have been used in many industries to improve performance and outcomes. This chapter reviews key QI concepts and their application to public health emergency preparedness (PHEP). We conclude that for QI to flourish and become standard practice, changes to the status quo are necessary. In particular, public health should build its capabilities in QI, enhance implementation, and align incentives to facilitate use of QI.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Disaster Planning / standards*
  • Emergency Medical Services
  • Humans
  • Public Health Administration / standards*
  • Total Quality Management*