[pinky64]

Hello all...I have just begun a new position in Quality Management. I would like to become very informed about the field and wondered if there are any books you would recommend for hospital quality. I would appreciate any help. The market is full of books and I am having a hard time choosing. Thank you!!!

[ltcconsultant]

The book I recommend most often is Quality and Performance Improvement in Healthcare which is published by AHIMA. It is a very practical book on how to actually do QI. Another interesting book is Health Care Quality and Outcomes Management, which is in an enormous 2" thick binder and published by Aspen. Someone is selling used (although still in the shrinkwrap - practically new) copies on amazon for $25. This is geared towards hospitals, whereas the AHIMA book covers all types of healthcare facilities. I can make more recommendations if you can give me more detailed information about exactly what your job entails and what kind of information you want.

[pinky64]

Thank you for the help. My position is a new one at the facility and I will be working in cooperation with the PI Director to establish a Quality Plan for the hospital. I do have extensive knowledge of the depts I will be working with but would like more guidance on Quality Managment.
The recommendations you have given sound very good. Thank you again!

[ltcconsultant]

I think the AHIMA book is at just the right level for someone starting out. Another good book I forgot to mention is Chip Caldwell's Handbook of Managing Change in Health Care, although it may be overkill at this point in time. There is only one measly chapter about change, the rest of the book is about quality improvement techniques. I've got some handouts and things from conferences I can send you if you PM or email.

[pinky64]

Thank you so much for your help. I have ordered the AHIMA book. It looks like a great place to start. I will probably be back for more help!
Thank you again

[jtaublib]

Managing Quality

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By J.M. Katz and E.Green - Mosby

This is a great reference book that will tell you how to develop and maintain a good program. Two nurses, who really understand what needed to be done, wrote it. I have the second edition that was printed in 1997. They may have a new edition out.