What is CQI?
Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) is a theory-based management system that looks at processes and outcomes in the hopes of ultimately improving practices and care. It is meant to drive culture changes and provide feedback on how the system is doing. The goals of CQI are to find and fix problems in a positive matter and improve the overall system performance by looking at the bigger picture and not just individual performance. While CQI is primarily driven by data and feedback, other important key elements include: accountability, data quality, leadership, input from all levels of stakeholders, teamwork, education and continuous review of progress. Once an initiative is implemented, the process is reevaluated and updated as needed—in a continuous loop.
CQI efforts are conducted to ensure that departmental objectives are being met, that quality patient care is being delivered, standards and regulations are being met, and that safe (effective) practices are enhancing the quality of life for the public that we serve. We work closely with out hospital partners, Tidewater EMS Council (TEMS) and toher agencies to accomplish our goals.
Reviews of cases involving cardiac arrest, advanced airway , STEMI, naloxone use, strokes and numerous other types of cases are performed regularly. These are selected based on department, regional and/or local healthcare initiatives, random selection, or through OMD input.
If, at any time, you have any questions or feedback about our CQI program, please do not hesitate to contact us.
At Virginia Beach EMS, our CQI efforts are facilitated by Captain Christi Budy, CQI Coordinator. You may reach Captain Budy at cbudy@vbgov.com or phone 757-385-5063.