Physician engagement in quality improvement: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective: The positive impact of quality improvement (QI) on organizational and system outcomes has the potential to contribute to a high-performing health system. Physician engagement in QI has been linked to the success and sustainability of improvement initiatives. An informed overview of physicians’ interests in QI, opportunities to be involved in QI efforts, and insights into physicians’ experiences of participation, both in hospital and general practice is critical to understanding the challenges and opportunities for physician engagement in QI. The purpose of this study was to gain insight into both the number of physicians currently trained and participating in QI and identify key barriers preventing physicians from being trained and participating in QI.Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was used to evaluate physician engagement in QI. A total of 231 physicians across Ontario, Canada, participated in the study.Results: Results indicate that leadership should continue to make Quality Improvement (QI) training opportunities available to physicians.Conclusions: If more physicians are to be engaged in QI, there is a need to clearly identify and communicate opportunities for QI projects.