Quality management within a cost-constrained service.

Abstract

AIM: To examine the meaning of quality and ways in which quality can be improved despite budgetary limitations. KEY ISSUES: Definitions of quality are discussed, comparing the development from industrial concepts of quality to that contained within the Department of Health's A First CLASS SERVICE: The relationship of cost and quality is examined and the effects of changing treatments on healthcare costs explored. Clinical error is identified as a cause of increased cost through failure to maintain quality. A variety of quality tools are discussed in identifying ways in which quality can be improved within a cost-limited service. Thrombolysis is used as an exemplar and the effects on nursing discussed. CONCLUSION: There is research evidence which demonstrates that some areas of quality are amenable to improvement despite budgetary constraints.