Feasibility and effectiveness of a pilot program to facilitate quality improvement learning in oncology: Experience of the American Society of Clinical Oncology Quality Training Program

Purpose Studies have demonstrated that structured training programs can improve health professionals' skills in performing clinical care or research.Wesought to develop and test a novel quality training program (QTP) tailored to oncology clinicians. Methods The American Society of Clinical Oncology QTP consisted of three in-person learning sessions and four phases: prework, planning, implementation, and sustain and spread. We measured two primary outcomes: program feasibility and effectiveness. Feasibility was evaluated by recording participation. Effectiveness was measured using the Kirkpatrick model, which evaluates four outcomes: reaction, learning, behavior, and results. We collected qualitative feedback through a focus group of participants and mixed quantitative-qualitative results from a 6-month follow-up evaluation survey. Results are presented using descriptive statistics. Results We received feedback from of 80% of participants who took part in 92% of in-person program days. QTP deliverables were completed by 100% of teams; none withdrew from the program. Regarding reaction, 100% of respondents expressed interest in actively contributing to future QTP courses. For learning, most teams continued to use the core methodology tools (eg, project charter, aims statements) after the program. Regarding behavior, when asked about intention to serve as a local quality improvement leader, a majority said they "definitely will" serve as: team leader on a specific project (75%), project champion or sponsor (75%), or teacher or trainer for others (64%). In evaluating outcomes, 50% reported applying learned methodology to new projects at their local institution. Conclusion We demonstrate one of the first feasible and effective training programs to facilitate quality improvement learning for oncology clinicians.

Duke Scholars

Author Arif H Kamal Medicine, Medical Oncology