Networking to improve quality and results

PRIMIS+ is encouraging all facilitators to join a learning network. These networks provide an opportunity to share ideas, resources and experiences with the aim of improving data quality.

Promoting MIACS in practice

The JAFFA network in Essex was one of the first to be established. Members have discussed issues ranging from Data Accreditation to the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF). In recent meetings, attendees have focused on PRIMIS+ query libraries.

These MIQUEST queries are designed to help practices enhance the quality of their data, improve patient care and respond to audits from their PCT or the Department of Health.

Intrigued by a talk on Myocardial Infarction and Acute Coronary Syndrome (MIACS) at a PRIMIS+ forum, group members asked Learning Consultant Jacky Skeel to give them more information.

The MIACS library searches for all patients diagnosed with MI or ACS and highlights gaps in their care.

The query library also provides guidance on diet, exercise and smoking, referral to cardiac rehabilitation and the use of specific drugs.

To improve MIACS recording in Essex, Jacky delivered training to network members on how to install and run the query. She also encouraged the group to cascade the information on to practice staff.

Jacky explained: 'The learning network allowed the MIACS training to be tailored to the facilitators, who felt more comfortable asking questions and sharing information in a smaller group. Most members had only used the IM&T DES library and were keen to find out more about the other queries available from PRIMIS+. After having the query explained to them in layman’s terms, the group felt confident about relaying the information to practices'.

JAFFA group member Sue Turner, a Data Quality Lead and PRIMIS+ Facilitator at NHS Mid-Essex, found the training useful and was encouraged to pass on what she had learnt to her practices.

Sue said: "Jacky explained the MIACS library and the clinical aspects to it, such as the difference between two types of heart attack (STEMI and NSTEMI). Jacky also explained the clinical benefits of ensuring that patients are on the four recommended drugs (unless contra-indicated). This is a vital part of selling a query set to practices. What's the point and what does it achieve? are always high on a practice manager’s list of questions."

To promote the MIACS query library, Sue contacted the practices in her PCT who had achieved data accreditation, as they were already familiar with using the PRIMIS+ data analysis software (CHART) and the importance of data quality.

At the time only five of her practices were accredited, but they agreed to allow Sue to download the library and run initial reports. Sue then analysed their feedback to decide how she would approach practices in the future.

'The learning network allowed the MIACS
training to be tailored to the facilitators, who felt
more comfortable asking questions and sharing
information in a smaller group'.

Jacky Skeel
PRIMIS+ Learning Consultant

The initial reaction was mixed, but the five practices did highlight the fact that exercise advice was often being given but not recorded. The distinction between STEMI and NSTEMI was rarely noted, as historically this did not appear on the hospital discharge summaries.

Sue continued: 'The nurse at one practice confirmed that she had gone back through records to see if she was able to distinguish between NSTEMI and STEMI and added this to the record where possible. With regard to new episodes, she is now recording this as a matter of course'.

Although the level of take-up has varied, Sue is pleased with what has been achieved and is now keen to promote the query in her other practices.

Other work commitments, specifically the Summary Care Record and IM&T Local Enhanced Service, have meant that take-up by other members of the network has been slow. But, buoyed by feedback from Sue, the entire group are now keen to run the MIACS library in their practices.

Clinical Supplier Networks

PRIMIS+ staff hope that by encouraging participation in learning networks, facilitators will develop stronger working links with each other and have the opportunity to share experience and work solutions.

But one facilitator at NHS Surrey has taken the idea a step further, using her network to help practices make the best use of their clinical systems.

Primary Care Data Quality Facilitator Alison Mills recognised that a number of practice staff in the PCT were struggling to get to grips with some aspects of their clinical systems. She saw a learning network as a good opportunity to help them.

As a result, Alison established who would be interested in taking part, found a convenient location and arranged a date.

To make the meetings as useful as possible, Alison decided to hold a separate meeting for each clinical system supplier so that practice staff would only hear the information relevant to them. She then got in touch with each of the clinical suppliers used in the PCT, and arranged for a representative to take part in a question and answer session.

The meetings, and the buffet provided, proved so popular that they are now held at regular intervals throughout the year and are always well attended by a mix of practice managers, administration staff and GPs.

Alison said: 'Attendees find the hints and tips really useful; they also meet up with other users when they have got a problem, or phone each other for advice'.

'The sessions usually depend on the clinical supplier. For INPS, Alison Young goes through any impending DLM (Down Line Manager) updates and gives useful hints and how to advice'.

'For EMIS, Sarah Beech attends and gives a question and answer session at the end of the meeting, and for iSoft, Gareth Hughes comes with a trainer to go through any problems or new versions that are about to come out'.

Alison believes the meetings would also prove useful for any facilitators wishing to attend. 'Sometimes the meetings are like having mini training sessions, we learn so much! Everyone is welcome; we’re here to help as many people as possible get the most from their system'.

How can you sign up?

For further information about the networks featured, or those taking place near you, please contact a Learning Consultant or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .