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SU‐GG‐P‐01: Design and Implementation of Medical Physics Criteria For Performance Excellence Based On The Baldridge National Quality Program
Author(s) -
Sternick E,
Cardarelli G,
Corrao A,
Curran B,
GarciaCobian J,
Hiatt J,
Jang S
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
medical physics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.473
H-Index - 180
eISSN - 2473-4209
pISSN - 0094-2405
DOI - 10.1118/1.2961749
Subject(s) - excellence , engineering management , benchmark (surveying) , process (computing) , workforce , strategic planning , health care , quality (philosophy) , health technology , engineering , quality management , management science , process management , computer science , operations management , business , management system , political science , philosophy , geodesy , epistemology , marketing , law , geography , operating system
Purpose: To apply the techniques recommended by the Baldridge National Quality Program (BNQP) in the evaluation and sustainable improvement of medical physics management and operations. Method and Materials: The BNQP, administered by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), has developed a comprehensive set of Criteria designed to enhance the performance of U.S. organizations in a broad range of industries, including healthcare. We have customized these Criteria to have relevance for a medical physics practice in an academic radiation oncology department. The Medical Physics Criteria for Performance Excellence consist of seven categories: Leadership, Strategic Planning; Focus on Patients, Other Customers and Markets; Measurement, Analysis and Knowledge Management; Workforce Focus; Process Management; and Results. Results: A team‐based, self‐assessment approach is used for evaluation. The quantitative analysis focuses on both process and results, generating a profile of strengths and opportunities for improvement relative to outcome oriented requirements. This methodology provides for a structured examination of internal operations and trends as well as a way to benchmark with other medical physics groups. Conclusion: The Medical Physics Criteria can facilitate the enhancement of organizational performance in an increasingly complex and competitive healthcare environment by helping medical physicists align resources with approaches; improve communication, productivity and effectiveness; and achieve strategic goals.