Tracer Methodology 101 Conducting a Quality Improvement Expertise/Activities Tracer in Ambulatory Care

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ISSN： 1542-8672

Source： Joint Commission: The Source, Vol.9, Iss.2, 2011-02, pp. : 6-11

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Abstract

Priority focus areas (PFAs) are processes, systems, or structures in a health care organization that significantly impact safety and/or the quality of care provided. The Joint Commission identifies PFAs specific to a health care organization which can impact how surveyors design initial tracer activity during a survey. One PFA is quality improvement expertise/activities. This PFA, it goes on to state, involves identifying, measuring, implementing, monitoring, analyzing, planning, and maintaining processes to ensure they function effectively. Issues relating to this PFA will emerge during an onsite survey—and during tracer activity—to identify how an organization makes the most of data in systems planning and improvement activities.