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Luc R. Pelletier, MSN RN BC CPHQ, Lauren Hess, BA, and Susanna Nemes, PhD. Tobacco, Drug and Alcohol Research, Danya International, Inc., 8737 Colesville Rd., Suite 1200, Silver Spring, MD 20910, (301) 565-2142, laurenh@danya.com
The scientific literature on addiction prevention and treatment provides specific actions or interventions that are the foundation for comprehensive, effective treatment programs. ImproveOutcomes.com, a Web-based performance measurement system for opioid treatment programs, includes an evidence-based actions database to assist program staff and program administrators in enhancing programming and identifying improvement opportunities.
In recent years, there has been an increasing emphasis on the diffusion of research evidence and, when clear-cut evidence is unavailable, expert opinion to develop ideal models of healthcare. One such approach is the incorporation of "evidence based actions" (i.e., clinical and programmatic policies, procedures, and practices that have been determined by research to be associated with positive treatment outcomes) into routine assessment and quality improvement processes. For example, the following evidence-based factors have been demonstrated in the literature to be associated with positive outcomes: appropriate methadone dosage; adequacy of individual and/or group counseling; having specialized services provided for associated medical, psychiatric, and/or family problems; and proper incentives for maintaining retention in treatment.
Danya International, Inc. has developed an evidence-based actions database for treatment staff to use in identifying opportunities for improvement. The database consists of action items, searchable keywords, and the literature citation. The database is easily accessible through a Web browser, saving treatment staff time in researching areas of concern as defined by their client populations. The presenters will review the system and describe its development and refinement. They will also discuss how the database can be used to improve the quality of healthcare services.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participants (learner) will be able to
Keywords: Information Databases, Quality Improvement
Related Web page: www.danya.com
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Danya International, Inc.
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: employment