The assigned article “Large-System Transformation in Health Care: A Realist Review” identifies several outcomes for effective transformation. Discuss one of those measures and the implications for change in your practice. 1 page Best, A., Greenhalgh, T., Lewis, S., Saul, J. E., Carroll, S., & Bitz, J. (2012). Large-system transformation in health care: A realist review. , (3), 421-456. doi:10.1111/j.1468-0009.2012.00670.x URL:
Best et al. (2012) conducted a realist review to identify outcomes of large-system transformation in health care. One of the measures identified in the study is the improvement in patient outcomes. This measure focuses on the impact of transformation on the health outcomes of patients, such as their overall level of health, disease management, and quality of life. Examining this measure has important implications for change in clinical practice.
One of the key findings of the review was that effective large-system transformation led to improved patient outcomes. The authors highlighted that transformation efforts that focused on not only changing the structure and processes of care but also on engaging patients and promoting patient-centered care had a positive impact on patient outcomes. This finding suggests that when healthcare systems adopt and implement changes that prioritize patient-centered care, patients experience better overall health and well-being.
The implications for change in clinical practice are significant. To improve patient outcomes, healthcare organizations need to shift their focus from a provider-centric model of care to a patient-centered approach. This shift requires several changes in practice.
Firstly, healthcare professionals need to involve patients in decision-making and care planning. This includes actively listening to patients’ preferences and concerns and incorporating their values and goals into the treatment plan. Shared decision-making can lead to more informed choices and improved patient satisfaction, which may ultimately result in better health outcomes.
Secondly, there should be an emphasis on education and empowerment of patients. Healthcare professionals need to ensure that patients understand their conditions, treatment options, and self-management strategies. Patients who are knowledgeable about their health are more likely to engage in behaviors that promote positive outcomes. Therefore, it is crucial for clinicians to provide clear and accurate information to patients, encourage their active participation in their care, and support their self-efficacy.
Thirdly, healthcare organizations need to prioritize continuity of care. Continuity of care refers to the coordination and integration of healthcare services over time and across different providers. Fragmented care can lead to poor patient outcomes, such as medication errors, unnecessary hospitalizations, and increased healthcare costs. By ensuring smooth transitions between healthcare settings and facilitating effective communication among care providers, healthcare organizations can enhance continuity of care and improve patient outcomes.
In addition to these changes in clinical practice, Best et al. (2012) also highlighted the importance of leadership and organizational culture in achieving improved patient outcomes during large-system transformation. The study emphasized that successful transformation requires strong leadership at multiple levels, including senior leaders who champion the change, middle managers who can operationalize the transformation efforts, and frontline staff who deliver care. Moreover, a culture that promotes continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration is essential for sustaining the improvements in patient outcomes.
In conclusion, the measure of improvement in patient outcomes identified in the realist review by Best et al. (2012) provides valuable insights into the implications for change in clinical practice. The findings highlight the necessity of adopting a patient-centered approach, involving patients in decision-making, providing education and empowerment, and ensuring continuity of care. These changes, coupled with effective leadership and a supportive organizational culture, can lead to improved patient outcomes in healthcare systems undergoing large-scale transformation. By prioritizing the needs and preferences of patients, healthcare organizations can ultimately achieve better health outcomes for their populations.