28 May Evaluation of the Data Quality Audit and Assurance Program (DQAAP)
The NSW Ministry of Health introduced the DQAAP to identify, enhance and promote processes that improve hospitals’ compliance with Ministry data collection requirements and data accuracy. HealthConsult was engaged to evaluate the appropriateness and effectiveness of the DQAAP.
An evaluation framework was developed that was informed by consultation with Ministry and Local Health District (LHD) representatives, a literature review, and interviews with interstate and overseas health system representatives to identify similar initiatives.
Evaluation data was collected data at six hospitals by interviewing and surveying hospital and LHD executives, and data managers, about the design and implementation of DQAAP; the impact of the recommendations made; the feedback process; and potential improvements.
The evaluation found that the DQAAP process was broadly appropriate and effective, but recommended refinements to the sample of hospitals audited, the data and policy areas included in audits, and the frequency of audits. Elements of the DQAAP were redesigned accordingly.