Healthcare Quality Improvement Competency: A Clinical and Training Imperative for Geropsychology

Abstract

Quality improvement (QI) work is increasingly necessary to ensure healthcare is delivered safely, efficiently, and equitably. As geropsychologists play an increasingly vital role in healthcare service delivery for older adults, it is imperative that they develop professional competence in QI, yet there is little formal QI training aimed at geropsychologists or to graduate students pursuing geropsychology. This article aims to elucidate the importance of QI education and training in geropsychology. In line with the Pikes Peak model for training in professional geropsychology, we outline QI knowledge and skills competencies for geropsychology training and suggest a rubric for integrating QI education into academic and clinical training from graduate school to professional practice. We provide recommended readings that geropsychology educators can read to become familiar with QI or use as part of a syllabus. Finally, we offer some recommendations for how current and future geropsychologists can be leaders in quality improvement work.