Question

Describe in your own words each of the 6 dimensions of healthcare quality. Why are they each important in ensuring quality healthcare delivery?

Safety

Effectiveness

Equity

Efficiency

Timeliness

Patient-Centeredness

Answer 1

The major aim of the healthcare industry is to provide high quality healthcare services to the patient.
The healthcare quality is determined by and is dependent of six factors : Safety, Effectiveness, Equity, Efficiency, Timeliness, Patient-Centeredness

Safety : preventing and protecting the patient for any kind of harm is the responsibility of healthcare organisation and determines the wuality of healthcare. Harm caused to patient health due to hospital acquired infections, ionising radiations, malpractice or doctor negligence have a negative effect on quality of healthcare.
2. Effectiveness : the services and care offered to the patient should be in accordance with patient need and benefit the patient health.
3. Equity : The care provided to the patient should be equitable. All healthcare organisation should treat the patients equally and provide care without discrimination based on gender, colour, race, ethinicity, culture or religion.
4. Efficiency: the care provided to patient should be efficient. While providing healthcare services to the patient there should be minimum wastage and the resources should be utilized efficiently.
5. Patient centred : The care provided should be patient centred. Healthcare team should provide care according to patient need and have respect for the patient. The hospital should maintain dignity and privacy of the patient.
6. Timely : The care provided should be delivered in timely manner. Minimise longwaiting hours and queues and provide emergency care to those in need will help deliver timely care.