Tools for healthcare system mapping

Let’s now consider some evidence-based tools that can support healthcare system mapping.

The video, produced by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, explains how visual tools can help in the improvement process.

One of the tools mentioned in the video was a process map – let’s look at an example, below:

_{Adapted from Alupo et al. (2017: 588) – click on image to expand size.}

Other visual tools include the following:

• Agent-based modelling
• A causal loop diagram
• Innovation/change management history
• Participatory Impact Pathways Analysis (PIPA)
• Run chart and flowchart
• Social network analysis
• Soft system methodology
• System dynamics modelling

Your task

Undertake some research online relating to the other tools listed in this step. Then, in the comments, share your responses to the following questions:

• Have you used any of these tools to map out a system or create a project plan for improvement? If so, how? If you haven’t, how do you think they could help you in the future?
• Which system mapping tool do you find most relevant and applicable to the healthcare system and why?

References

_{Alupo, P., Ssekitoleko, R., Rabin, T., Kalyesubula, R., Kimuli, I., and Bodnar, B. (2017) ‘Improving Inpatient Medication Adherence Using Attendant Education in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Uganda’. International Journal for Quality in Health Care 29 (4), 587-592}

_{Littlejohns, L. B., Baum, F., Lawless, A., and Freeman, T. (2018) ‘The Value of a Causal Loop Diagram in Exploring the Complex Interplay of Factors that Influence Health Promotion in a Multisectoral Health System in Australia’. Health Research Policy and Systems 16 (1), 126}

_{Silverman, B. G., Hanrahan, N., Bharathy, G., Gordon, K., and Johnson, D. (2015) ‘A Systems Approach to Healthcare: Agent-based Modelling, Community Mental Health, and Population Well-being’. Artificial Intelligence in Medicine 63 (2), 61-71}