What does Continuous Quality Improvement aim to achieve?

Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) focuses on making incremental improvements to processes, systems, and outcomes over time. The essence of CQI lies in its systematic approach to identifying areas that require enhancement, implementing changes, and evaluating the results to make further adjustments. This ongoing cycle promotes gradual enhancements, encouraging organizations to strive for higher efficiency and effectiveness in their operations and care delivery.

While compliance with regulatory standards is important, CQI goes beyond mere adherence to regulations; it seeks to foster a culture of continuous enhancement that benefits both the organization and its service recipients. Isolation of quality control systems does not align with the collaborative approach that CQI promotes, as it emphasizes integration across departments and functions. Immediate resolution of patient complaints, while vital for customer service, does not represent the broader scope of ongoing improvements that CQI champions; rather, it is a reactive approach, whereas CQI is proactive and focused on long-term quality enhancement.

Thus, the principle of making incremental improvements in quality processes is central to the philosophy and practice of Continuous Quality Improvement.