Continuous quality improvement (CQI) is a management process that consists of continuous, systematic actions that lead to measurable improvement in services and outcomes. The process encourages practitioners to start with the questions, How are we doing? and How can we do it better? The goal is to create an ongoing cycle of collecting data and using it to make decisions that gradually improve program operations.
This course introduces key concepts and methods an agency can use to design an effective approach to CQI implementation. Participants will learn how to use proven tools like the swim lane mapping, SWOT-PESTLE analysis, and fishbone diagramming. They will also learn how to apply the Plan-Do-Study-Act Cycle to enhance agency-wide efficiency and effectiveness in operations.

**Information to access the course will be provided after registration.**

Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this course, participants will be able to:

• describe three characteristics of a CQI plan;
• utilize two methods for monitoring and analyzing performance measures;
• apply the Plan-Do-Study-Act Cycle for program improvement; and
• create a problem statement that aligns with best practices for quality improvement.

Instructor
Daniel Barnett, MD, MPH, is a Professor in the Department of Environmental Health AND Engineering at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, where he has a joint appointment in the Department of Health Policy and Management. Barnett's long-standing practice-based and research experiences in public health have included a strong applied emphasis on quality improvement for public health agencies and their stakeholders in the face of evolving challenges to population health.

Target Audience
This course is appropriate for individuals who are interested in improving the performance, efficiency, and effectiveness of their agency.

Level
This course is appropriate for those with no or basic levels of experience with continuous quality improvement.

Technology Requirements
A computer with high-speed internet connection is required to view this course.

Continuing Education Credit
Continuing Education credit for certified public health professionals (CPH-CE, 1 hour) is available.

Creation Date: This course was created in September 2020.

For more information about this course or assistance with registration, contact marphtc@pitt.edu.