Monitoring, quality assurance, and continuous improvement
Objective
There are an agreed set of metrics that are used evaluate the effectiveness of aftercare in preventing deterioration and reducing readmissions, feeding into local assurance frameworks.
Why is this important?
Systems with strong governance and oversight of quality and performance are more effective in implementing joint up Section 117 processes. Monitoring and review enables variation in practice to be challenged and opportunities for improvement identified reflecting a culture of continuous improvement, driven by data and insight.
What does good look like?
- Data-driven: There is an agreed set of key performance indicators (KPIs) regularly reviewed by the partnership board to identify areas for improvement.
- Qualitative feedback: There is regular feedback from people and their carers about their experience of aftercare services and this is used to help to identify what is working well and what needs to be improved.
- A learning culture: There is a culture of learning and continuous improvement across the aftercare system with regular opportunities for staff to reflect on their practice, to share learning, and to identify opportunities for innovation.
- Independent scrutiny: The aftercare system is subject to independent scrutiny to ensure that it is meeting the required standards, this could include peer reviews, independent audits, and inspections/assessment by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
Practical considerations
- Performance framework: Is there an agreed performance framework with a clear set of KPIs to monitor the effectiveness of the aftercare system that considers service user experience, outcomes, and use of resources?
- Quality assurance: : Is there an agreed performance framework with a clear set of KPIs to monitor the effectiveness of the aftercare system that considers service user experience, outcomes, and use of resources?
- Audit programme: Is there a programme of regular audits to provide assurance on the quality of Section 117 policy and practice. Does this include audits of case files?