Introduction to Quality Improvement

In this introductory course to Quality Improvement (QI) in pharmacy, you will explore how structured approaches can be used to identify, test and implement changes that lead to safer, more effective and patient-centered care. The course begins by unpacking what is meant by “quality” in healthcare, why improvement is necessary and how health professionals play a central role in driving positive change. You will be introduced to the history and principles of QI, understand its benefits compared to traditional change methods and learn about the Model for Improvement; a widely adopted framework that guides successful QI initiatives in healthcare settings.

QI is particularly relevant as it directly impacts patient safety, medicines optimisation and operational efficiency. From reducing dispensing errors and improving stock management to ensuring timely access to critical medicines and enhancing communication across teams, QI provides practical tools that can be applied every day. By the end of this introductory course you will be equipped to make small but meaningful changes that improve workflow, support multidisciplinary collaboration and deliver better outcomes for patients.

What you can expect in this course:

• Module 1 covers the fundamentals of QI, its healthcare context, key benefits, how it differs from research and audit as well as introducing the Model for Improvement.
• Module 2 focuses on identifying quality issues, engaging stakeholders and using tools like aim statements, driver diagrams and flow charts to analyse and understand processes for improvement.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Explain the fundamental concepts of quality improvement.
• Distinguish between quality improvement, research, service evaluation and audit.
• Explain the Model for Improvement and its role in driving change.
• Analyse specific processes or systems using quality improvement tools and techniques to identify problems.

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The purpose of this course is not only to build your understanding of QI concepts and tools but also to promote lasting changes in how you approach and deliver improvement work in your everyday healthcare practice. To support this, the course has been intentionally designed to go beyond passive learning. It will encourage you to reflect on your current practice, challenge assumptions and strengthen your confidence to take active steps toward leading or supporting meaningful change in your workplace.

Throughout the course, we aim to promote the following behaviour changes among pharmacists and other healthcare professionals involved in QI initiatives:

• Identify and prioritise real improvement opportunities by considering the perspectives of patients, frontline staff and the wider system rather than relying on assumptions.
• Involve the right people at the right time, engaging key stakeholders including patients throughout the improvement journey to ensure interventions are co-designed, contextually appropriate and more likely to succeed.
  

While each module builds your knowledge and skills, they also include opportunities to reflect on your existing approach, consider what might need to change and explore how to apply your learning in your day-to-day work. We encourage you to engage fully with these behaviour-focused elements and use them to challenge yourself, support your colleagues and improve the care and services you provide.

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This course should take approximately 2 hours to complete.

Published: August 2025

Review date: August 2028

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