Diagnostic errors in primary care settings pose a significant threat to patient safety and healthcare quality. The complexity of medical decision-making, coupled with communication challenges within healthcare teams, can contribute to delays or inaccuracies in diagnosis. To combat these issues and foster a safer environment for patients, the implementation of evidence-based diagnostic approaches is crucial. This is where programs like TeamSTEPPS® for Diagnosis Improvement become invaluable, offering a structured framework to enhance diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.
TeamSTEPPS, an evidence-based program, is fundamentally built upon four core skills: communication, leadership, situation monitoring, and mutual support. When applied to the realm of diagnosis, as in the TeamSTEPPS for Diagnosis Improvement course, these skills become directly targeted at reducing diagnostic errors. By fostering improved communication and teamwork amongst all members of the healthcare team – from physicians and nurses to non-clinical staff and even patients and their families – TeamSTEPPS aims to cultivate a culture of diagnostic excellence.
Diagnostic harm is increasingly recognized as a critical area needing attention within healthcare. Research consistently highlights that diagnostic errors are not only widespread but also carry substantial costs, both financially and in terms of patient well-being. Achieving diagnostic excellence, therefore, is not merely aspirational but a necessity. Healthcare organizations and providers are in urgent need of effective tools and resources to mitigate diagnostic harm, and TeamSTEPPS for Diagnosis Improvement directly addresses this gap.
This comprehensive course is designed to increase awareness of diagnostic safety, promote the concept of a multidisciplinary diagnostic team, and equip healthcare professionals with practical assessment and training tools. The course material consists of seven customizable PowerPoint® training modules, adaptable to the specific needs of any healthcare team and facilitator.
The flexibility of TeamSTEPPS allows for delivery in various formats, including virtual sessions, traditional classroom settings, or as self-paced learning modules for individuals. To further enhance the learning experience, supplemental resources are provided. These include the Team Assessment Tool for Improving Diagnosis, a compelling case study following the “Diagnostic Journey of Mr. Kane,” a Reflective Practice Tool to encourage continuous improvement, and a Post-course Knowledge Assessment to gauge learning outcomes.
For course facilitators, a dedicated Facilitator’s Guide is available to assist in developing and implementing a tailored training plan. This guide offers step-by-step instructions for training staff in crucial teamwork and communication skills, specifically aimed at improving diagnostic processes. Complementing the Facilitator’s Guide, the Participant Workbook provides trainees with essential materials for course activities, such as practical exercises, case-based scenarios designed to simulate real-world diagnostic challenges, and structured reflective practices.
Ready to take the first step towards enhancing evidence-based diagnosis in your primary care setting?
For Course Facilitators: Begin your journey with the Facilitator’s Implementation Roadmap (PDF, 355 KB). This roadmap serves as your starting point for TeamSTEPPS training, providing clear, actionable steps for planning and implementing the course effectively with your team.
For Individual Self-Paced Learners: If you plan to complete the course independently, the Self-Paced Learner’s Roadmap (PDF, 574 KB)** is your essential guide. This document offers step-by-step instructions to maximize your learning experience and effectively apply the core principles and tools of TeamSTEPPS in your practice.
The TeamSTEPPS for Diagnosis Improvement course is structured into four progressive steps to facilitate effective implementation and lasting change:
Step 1: Prepare Yourself and Your Organization
Step 2: Make a Plan
Step 3: Train Your Team or Yourself
Step 4: Evaluate
Acknowledgments:
This project was made possible through the dedication and expertise of the following individuals and development partners:
Project Team: Led by the MedStar Health Institute for Quality and Safety under the direction of:
- Chris Goeschel Sc.D., RN.
- Katie Carlin, M.B.A.
- Melissa Eckroade, M.H.A.
- Bryan O. Buckley, Dr.P.H., M.P.H.
- Kisha Ali, M.S.
- Mary Hill, B.S.
- Kelly Smith, Ph.D.
- Kelley Baker, M.A.
Development Partners: Collaborating subject matter experts included:
- Dana Siegal, RN, CRICO Strategies.
- Michael Rosen, Ph.D., Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
- Heidi King, M.S., Department of Defense (DoD) Patient Safety Program.
- Gwen Sherwood, Ph.D., RN, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Nursing.
- Helen Haskell, M.A., Mothers Against Medical Error.
- Bonnie DiPietro, M.S., RN, Maryland Patient Safety Center.
- Matthew P. Schreiber, M.D., M.H.S., MedStar Washington Hospital Center.
- Mark L. Graber, M.D., Society to Improve Diagnosis in Medicine.
Valuable organizational partnerships were established with the MedStar Health Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Clinical Directors Network, and National Nurse-Led Care Consortium.
