What does the PDSA cycle aim to improve through continuous testing?

The PDSA (Plan-Do-Study-Act) cycle is a structured framework used for continuous improvement in various processes, particularly in healthcare. It emphasizes iterative testing of changes to optimize the quality of care.

Choosing to focus on the quality of care outcomes based on measurement reflects the core purpose of the PDSA cycle. The process allows healthcare providers to systematically plan an intervention, implement it, observe the results, and adjust based on the findings. This cyclical approach ensures that quality improvements are based on real data and measurable outcomes, enabling healthcare organizations to enhance their services effectively.

In contrast, focusing solely on the quantity of patient visits, reduction in clinical staff, or cost-effectiveness of treatments might not address the direct improvements in the quality of care. While these factors are essential in the overall management of a healthcare facility, the PDSA cycle specifically targets the enhancement of care standards through evidence-driven adjustments and patient-centered outcomes.