MEASURES
CQI/TQM, versus Other Approaches
Using the five criteria defining CQI/TQM noted previously-emphasis on systems and processes rather than individuals; data-driven problem-solving approaches; use of cross-organizational teams, empowerment, and customer focus-37 hospitals characterized themselves as CQI/TQM users through a baseline questionnaire completed by the hospital CEO and the person in charge of the hospital's quality assurance/improvement efforts. The remaining 24 hospitals reported using more traditional approaches to quality assurance and improvement It is important to note that all five criteria had to be present for the hospital to be considered as a CQI/TQM site. The baseline responses were partially validated through discussions with advisory committee members involving representatives from participating organizations, and through on-site visits to ten hospitals. The 61 percent positive CQI/TQM response within this group approaches the 69 percent national figure reported a year later.