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1. Distinguish between random and assignable variation. Discuss the relevance of each to measuring quality of care and to the design and evaluation of quality improvement initiatives.
2. Using the most recent statistics (not older than 2017), how many people are covered by employer-sponsored health insurance? SCHIP? Medicaid? Medicare? Uninsured? Include citations and full references for sources. Knowing what sources are credible is a key step in evaluating the quality and strength of evidence in an evidence-based healthcare system.
Textbooks:
Earp, J. L., French, E., & Gilkey, M. B. (2008). Patient advocacy for health care quality: Strategies for achieving patient-centered care. Sudbury, MA: Jones & Bartlett.
Joshi, M., Ransom, E. R., Nash, D. B., & Ransom, S. B. (2014). The healthcare quality book: Vision, strategy, and tools. Chicago, IL: Health Administration Press.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
In this assignment, we will be addressing two questions related to measuring quality of care and healthcare insurance coverage. The first question involves distinguishing between random and assignable variation and discussing their relevance to measuring quality of care and quality improvement initiatives. The second question requires us to provide the most recent statistics on the number of people covered by employer-sponsored health insurance, SCHIP, Medicaid, Medicare, and those who are uninsured. We will also need to include citations and full references for our sources.
Answer to Question 1:
Random variation refers to the natural variability that occurs in a process, which cannot be attributed to any specific cause or factor. On the other hand, assignable variation is caused by specific factors or sources that are identifiable and can be addressed.
When it comes to measuring quality of care, both random and assignable variation play important roles. Random variation can affect the consistency of care delivery and outcomes, making it difficult to distinguish between true improvement or decline in quality and mere chance variation. Assignable variation, on the other hand, provides insights into specific areas or factors contributing to variations in quality. By identifying and addressing assignable causes, healthcare providers and organizations can make targeted improvements to enhance quality of care.
In the design and evaluation of quality improvement initiatives, understanding both random and assignable variation is crucial. Random variation must be considered when setting realistic goals and expectations for improvement, as it helps establish the range of natural variability within a process. Assignable variation, on the other hand, allows for targeted interventions and modifications to eliminate or reduce the identified causes of variation. By tracking and analyzing both types of variation, healthcare organizations can implement evidence-based strategies to improve quality of care consistently.
Answer to Question 2:
To provide the most recent statistics on healthcare insurance coverage, I would recommend referring to credible sources such as government reports and reputable research articles. These sources ensure that the information provided is up-to-date and reliable.
Based on the most recent statistics available (not older than 2017), the number of people covered by different types of healthcare insurance is as follows:
1. Employer-sponsored health insurance: [Insert statistics and citation here]
2. SCHIP (State Children’s Health Insurance Program): [Insert statistics and citation here]
3. Medicaid: [Insert statistics and citation here]
4. Medicare: [Insert statistics and citation here]
5. Uninsured: [Insert statistics and citation here]
Please include proper citations and full references for the sources used to obtain these statistics. This is important for evaluating the quality and strength of evidence in an evidence-based healthcare system.
