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NACCHO's Accreditation Preparation & Quality Improvement E-Newsletter
August 2010
Vol. 16
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Greetings!  
 
Welcome to the latest edition of accreditNATION, NACCHO's periodic Accreditation Preparation & Quality Improvement E-Newsletter. Topics in this issue include:
 
 
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Article1Kaizen Model for Continuous Quality Improvement Webinar

The Kaizen model is an approach to continuous quality improvement (CQI) that focuses on eliminating waste and standardizing efficient processes throughout an agency by eliminating silos and engaging all staff in the improvement efforts. The Bethlehem Health Bureau (PA) conducted several Kaizen events to increase efficiency in agency processes such as call center operations, data collection, HIV testing, and more. These examples can be accessed from NACCHO's QI Toolkit by searching 'Kaizen.' To learn more about the Kaizen model and its application, access this free archived webinar offered by the National Network of Public Health Institutes (NNPHI). Contact Pooja Verma at pverma@naccho.org with questions regarding the QI Toolkit or Anooj Pattnaik at apattnaik@nnphi.org with questions regarding the webinar.
Article2Uncovering the Truth: Root Cause Analysis
When undertaking a QI project it is tempting to act upon what we think may be the cause of a problem before investigating to understand the real root cause. Because undesirable circumstances or events are often masked, it is important that the true problem is understood before action is taken. Challenging preconceptions by conducting a root cause analysis (RCA) is an essential step in the QI process. NACCHO's Toolbox offers several QI tools that may assist LHDs in conducting a RCA including:
 
1.      How To Use: Investigating Pandemic Risk by Determining Root Cause
2.      Worksheet: Health Problem Analysis Worksheet
 
Find additional resources in NACCHO's Toolbox by searching 'Root Cause Analysis.' Contact Pooja Verma at pverma@naccho.org or (202) 507-4206 with questions.
Article3ACHI Community Health Assessment Toolkit
As one of the three prerequisites for national accreditation, many LHDs are working towards the development of a community health assessment (CHA). The Association for Community Health Improvement (ACHI) offers this Toolkit as a guide for public health professionals to complete a typical CHA process. The Toolkit offers guidance on completing the six principle steps in a typical CHA process; step summaries with task checklists, budget and timeline guides, and lists of the skills needed for an effective assessment; and resource links to additional guides, tools, and templates. To access the Toolkit visit http://www.assesstoolkit.org/ or e-mail assesstoolkit@aha.org.
Article4Accreditation Preparation and Quality Improvement Toolkits
NACCHO's Accreditation Preparation & QI Toolkits offer an online repository of resources developed to assist LHDs interested in preparing for national accreditation and engaging in QI efforts. Both Toolkits are searchable and include resources based on an LHD's level of readiness and experience. These Toolkits contain storyboards, case examples, guidebooks, reports, and templates which can be searched, downloaded, and adapted to your agency's needs. If your LHD has developed or uses accreditation preparation or QI tools that other LHDs may find useful, share them with us! To submit a tool, e-mail a copy to Pooja Verma at pverma@naccho.org or call (202) 507-4206 for more information. 
Article519th Annual Service Quality Conference, September 13-14
The American Society for Quality (ASQ) is hosting their Annual Service Quality Conference in Las Vegas, NV from September 13-14, 2010. This year's theme is focused on gaining a competitive edge through improved customer service and quality tools. Specific topics will cover how to improve customer service, selling quality, reducing costs, innovation, and problem solving. For more information visit the ASQ conference website or call (800) 935-2231.   
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