What framework is commonly used for quality improvement in healthcare?

The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle is a widely recognized framework for quality improvement in healthcare because it systematically guides organizations through a process of testing changes and assessing their effectiveness. This iterative approach allows healthcare providers to implement changes on a small scale, evaluate their impact, learn from the results, and refine the process before wider implementation.

The framework consists of four key stages: planning a change (Plan), executing the change (Do), observing and analyzing the results (Study), and taking action based on what was learned (Act). This cyclical process encourages continuous improvement and innovation in patient care and operational efficiency.

In contrast, other options also contribute to quality improvement but focus on different aspects or methodologies. Six Sigma emphasizes reducing defects and improving process variation, often through statistical analysis. Lean Manufacturing seeks to enhance efficiency by eliminating waste in processes, emphasizing value from the patient's perspective. Root Cause Analysis is a method used specifically to investigate problems or adverse events, seeking to identify their underlying causes rather than focusing on ongoing quality improvement.

While each of these approaches has its merits, the PDSA cycle’s structured, iterative process makes it particularly effective for healthcare organizations aiming to continuously improve their services and patient outcomes.