About This Course

The Quality Improvement Methodology modules provide basic training on essential tools and methodologies for continuous quality improvement (CQI) activities. These short self-paced, on-demand video modules are appropriate for anyone interested in learning about and participating in quality improvement (QI) activities.

The video topics are presented in the QI Gallery. Specific topics include PDSA, DMAIC-Six Sigma, Lean, High Reliability Organizations, QI versus Research, DMADV, Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA), Team Science, Systems Thinking, QI Tools and Advanced Control Charts. Most videos are about 8-10 minutes in length followed by short knowledge check questions to help self-assess comprehension.  After viewing ALL of the topics available in the QI Gallery, and completing the self-assessment knowledge checks, clinicians are eligible to complete the post-tests for CME or attendance credit. Students and others are welcomed to view the video content, take the self-assessment knowledge checks, and complete the post-tests for class credit.

The ultimate goal of this course is to provide clinicians with the knowledge needed to incorporate quality improvement (QI) methodologies into clinical practice in order to improve patient care.

Method of Participation

This continuing medical education enduring material is in an interactive web format.

To receive AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™ you should:

• View the interactive video gallery modules 
• Complete the corresponding post-tests (a passing score of 75% is required)
• Estimated time to complete this activity, including a review of the materials, is 4 to 5 hours.

This CME activity is divided into the four sessions, each with designated CME hours, as follows:

• QI Improvement (QI) Methodologies - 1.25 credits
• Quality Improvement (QI) Tools - 1.0 credits
• Advanced Quality Improvement (QI) - 1.25 credits
• Team Science - 1.0 credits
• TOTAL FOR ALL SESSIONS (ACTIVITY) = 4.5 credits

Hardware/software requirements: Activities will run on desktop or mobile device using the most recent version of common browsers, including Internet Explorer, Safari, or Google Chrome.

If you have questions about the participation process, please e-mail the UT Southwestern Medical Center, ceoffice@utsouthwestern.edu.

Target Audience

Providers from all specialties, residents, physician assistants, respiratory therapists, social workers, nurse practitioners, radiologists, pharmacists, etc.  This activity is appropriate and beneficial to all who are interested in learning about and participating in quality improvement (QI) activities.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, the participant should be able to:

• Identify QI tools and implement them into practice demonstrating quality improvement
• Employ the use of different QI methodologies (PDSA, DMAIC, Lean, etc.)
• Analyze findings using statistical tools for improvement in patient care, QI projects, etc.
• Utilize information technology to optimize learning and just-in-time refresher learning
• Apply knowledge obtained from Quality Improvement to improving the health system, mentorship with medical students, and clinical care.