Quality Healthcare

Question 1

Discuss the 6 dimensions that constitute quality in healthcare.

Answer 1

• safe (minimise risk and avoid injuries)
• effective (adheres to evidence base and results in improved health outcomes based on indication)
• patient-centred (respectful of and responsive to patient preferences, needs and values)
• accessible (ensure timeliness, care provided in the right setting where skills and resources are appropriate)
• efficient (optimise resource use, avoid waste)
• equitable (care does not vary in quality bc of personal characteristics such as gender, ethnicity etc)

Question 2

What are some barriers to quality healthcare?

Answer 2

• rapid changes in medical science and technology
• growing complexity of healthcare
• change in public heath needs
• healthcare delivery is disorganised

Question 3

What are the three aspects of beyond healthcare 2020?

Answer 3

• move beyond hospital to community
• move beyond quality to value
• move beyond healthcare to health

Question 4

What are the drug subsidies and schemes available?

Answer 4

• standard drug list I & II
• medication assistance fund (MAF)
• CHAS scheme

Question 5

Is it important to consider patient’s perspective?

Answer 5

Yes, patient-centred care!

Question 6

What are the strategies in place towards ensuring quality healthcare in Singapore?

Answer 6

1) Legislative framework for quality
- private hospitals and medical clinics act (mandatory to have quality assurance committee, MOH can inspect premises, mandates monitoring quality indicators)
- professional registration and conduct
- rigorous regulation of health products (health products act)

2) Non-legislative framework for quality
- evidence based clinical practice guidelines and practice standards
- monitor patient satisfaction
- market based mechanism to promote competition and transparency
- voluntary accreditation for quality and safety standards

Question 7

Describe the 5 key thrusts in the National Pharmacy Strategy and how they contribute to quality healthcare.

Answer 7

1) Pharmaceutical care excellence (enhancing pharmacy services that bring health and value for everyone in the community)

2) Confident pharmacy workforce
(skilled, future ready and innovative pharmacy workforce)

3) Re-design the supply chain
(delivering seamless, convenient, accessible, affordable and safe medications at every point of care)

4) Information enablement
(empowering people to get the best out of their medications and achieve care goals)

5) Technology enablement
(delivery seamless and effective transition of care across all care settings through technology as an enabler)

Question 8

What is the quality improvement mindset?

Answer 8

Will, ideas and execution.

Question 9

What is the model for quality improvement?

Answer 9

1. Set an aim
2. Establish process and outcome measures
3. Identify changes
4. Test changes using PDSA cycle
5. Implement changes on large scale

PDSA cycle:
Plan -> Do -> Study -> Act