Exploring Lessons Learned From Mediclinic Windhoek Accreditation For Extrapolation To Public Health Facilities

ABSTRACT

Quality Improvement (QI) is a diverse health care issue with multiple dimensions, which include structural, leadership and organizational attitudes. Generally, private hospitals are perceived to have better quality of care according to international standards; this perspective is true in Namibia, whereby only one private hospital is accredited according to international standards. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of staff regarding the COHSASA accreditation process, as well as to explore and describe critical success factors leading to the accreditation of Mediclinic Windhoek. The methodology used in this study was a qualitative study method. A descriptive case study was used to capture the experiences and opinions of staff as well as analyze and interpret their lessons learned from the experience. Data was collected using focus group discussion of homogenous groups of staff, although one heterogeneous group was also interviewed to compare data patterns. Data was captured on a tape recorder after obtaining verbal consent from the participants. Data was analyzed, and themes as well as sub-themes were then derived from the study for interpretation. The findings indicated that the participants had a uniform understanding of what quality and quality improvement of health care entails within their context. They linked quality of care to patient safety and pleasant patient experience during hospital stay or visit. The findings further indicated that the participants perceived maintaining of health care standards as an integral and unending duty and responsibility of staff working together with management. Adhering to the institution’s values, policies and culture enhances their ability to render quality care.