Author(s): Randi Kendrick, BS, CPHQ
Assistant Program Manager
Michigan Medicine

With a diverse background spanning both management and cellular & molecular biology, coupled with hands-on experience in quality improvement initiatives within healthcare settings, I am uniquely positioned to share insights on process improvement and the successful collection of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) with the NAHQ audience. My journey began in the Quality Department, where I spearheaded projects aimed at elevating patient care, including the collection of PROs and leveraging data analytics tools like Press Ganey. Through this, I acquired a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in improving the patient experience and utilizing data for informed decision-making. My current role as Assistant Program Manager and Clinical Quality Lead at the Michigan Radiation Oncology Quality Consortium further refines my expertise, overseeing data collection initiatives and emphasizing the importance of PROs in enhancing healthcare outcomes. Additionally, my certification as a Professional in Healthcare Quality underscores my commitment to driving excellence in care delivery.

Competency Domain: Performance & Process Improvement

Description: The collection of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) is constantly improving, driven by a desire to provide patient-centered care and use PROs to measure care satisfaction. This abstract outlines strategies to increase PROs collection among prostate cancer patients undergoing radiation treatment within the Michigan Radiation Oncology Quality Consortium (MROQC) using the Plan-Do-Check-Act Cycle. Our success is underscored by the increase in PROs completion rates from 32% during the pilot phase to the current 74%. This achievement is credited to diversified data collection methods, continuous data review, and prompt incorporation of adjustments to improve patient reporting on their health and care experiences.Problem:Increase the rate of prostate cancer patients completing a survey at the start of their treatment to 60%. During the pilot phase, completion rates were at 32%, falling short of the desired goal.Measurement:Patient treatment experiences, side effects, and QOL were evaluated via email and paper surveys distributed during appointments or by mail. Responses, collected into a dataset for analysis, required at least one question answered for inclusion. Data was visualized using line and bar graphs, with improvement driven by the PDCA cycle.Analysis:Patients receiving radiation for prostate cancer completed surveys at treatment onset and conclusion. Initially, 25% of MROQC facilities collected data, refining methods through monthly meetings. After the pilot, all facilities completed data collection with continuous evaluation. Completion rates for monthly surveys were monitored and stratified by facility and consortium-wide averages.Implementation:The project employed a standardized data collection method involving prostate cancer patients. Challenges included patient reluctance, inconsistent data collection, technical issues, and staff resistance. Solutions included refined patient communication, flexibility in data collection, prompt tech support, staff training, and knowledge-sharing. This offers insights for improving PROs' data collection efficiency.Results/DiscussionIn 2023, the Consortium achieved a 74% baseline completion rate, attributing our success to PDCA cycle integration. To sustain our success, we diligently monitor completion rates and collect feedback monthly. Flexible data collection fosters site innovation, enhancing patient participation. An adaptive approach ensures responsiveness to evolving needs, optimizing long-term success.

Evaluation: Complete Poster Evaluation