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- Talk
- 22/06/2023
- CANADA
The Role of Strategic Clinical Networks (SCNs) including the Bone and Joint Health SCN in Alberta Health Services and Provincial Successes to Date
Description
In the Alberta Spotlight Lecture Number One, Jason Werle discusses the pivotal role of Provincial Quality Improvement, with a focus on the Bone and Joint Health Strategic Clinical Network (SCN). He introduces the SCN's mission to enhance the health of Albertans through collaboration among people, research, and innovation, highlighting that it was one of the first networks established in a province that currently boasts 15 networks addressing various healthcare sectors. Emphasizing the significance of measuring health outcomes, he cites Lord Kelvin's famous quote that underscores the necessity of metrics for improvement. Additionally, he reflects on the contributions of Ci Frank and the Alberta Bone and Joint Health Institute in fostering advancements in musculoskeletal health. The institute, independent from the healthcare system, has been conducting a thorough analysis of healthcare data since 2002, which aids in designing quality improvement strategies.
Werle elaborates on the SCN’s strategic priorities of bone health, joint health, movement, and function, showcasing initiatives such as the integrated hip and knee care path initiated in 2005, which aims to enhance patient care through an evidence-based approach. He reviews improvements achieved through quality initiatives, like reduced hospital stays and blood transfusion rates in arthroplasty, as well as improved surgical outcomes for hip fractures.
The lecture underscores continuous measurement and engagement of frontline teams as critical components of ongoing quality improvement, while acknowledging challenges posed by the pandemic and the necessity to address long waitlists in orthopedic surgeries. In conclusion, Werle stresses the collaborative nature of healthcare improvement, calling for teamwork among various professionals to foster a culture of quality and efficiency in patient care.