Integrated COPD Outreach Initiative

Using Plan-Do-Study-Act, this initiative prioritized utilization of spirometry as the standard diagnostic tool for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. Key objectives included treatments with bronchodilators, the utilization of the evidence-based medicine order set, reduction of length of stay and mortality rate. The results are more consistent treatment and improved outcomes for COPD patients including: usage of EBM order sets - 92 percent; spirometry orders - 76 percent; bronchodilators as medication - 84 percent; LOS - 3.65; mortality rate - 0; and mortality observed/expected ratio - 0.

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This case study is part of the Illinois Hospital Association's annual quality awards. Each year, IHA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Illinois hospitals in continually improving and transforming health care in the state. These hospitals are improving health by striving to achieve the Triple Aim--improving the patient experience of care (including quality and satisfaction); improving the health of populations; and reducing the per capita cost of health care.

Award recipients achieve measurable and meaningful progress in providing care that is:

• Safe
• Timely
• Effective
• Efficient
• Equitable
• Patient-centered

(The Institute of Medicine's six aims for improvement.)