We undertook a diagnostic review that optimised the underutilised features of a risk management system and simplified data capture, resulting in improved risk and incident management for the Acute Trust. We also developed dashboards and trackers for each module within the system and provided a user-friendly guide for enhanced system utilisation.

Background

NHS Midlands and Lancashire (NHS ML) were approached by a North West Integrated Care Board (ICB) to provide specialist support to an Acute Trust. The trust had received a ‘Requires Improvement’ notice following a Care Quality Commission (CQC)visit earlier in the year. An improvement plan had been formulated, and the Trust required the capacity and capability to accelerate progress in several key areas of improvement.

Requirement: To support Datix management, manage data entries and understand the capability and functionality of the system. NHS ML commenced support in September 2022.

Action

An NHS ML workstream lead, armed with specialist expertise, conducted a comprehensive diagnostic assessment to identify key concerns and suggest recommendations for enhancement. As a result, a strategic 6-week immediate action delivery plan was developed, encompassing the following objectives:

Optimise the underutilised features of the Trust Datix system to enhance incident and risk management.

Streamline and simplify the incident data capture form for improved user experience.

Develop a range of dashboards tailored to support reporting based on incident type and specific domains, such as StEIS and Clinical Audit.

Design a user-friendly Datix guide for staff to facilitate efficient system utilisation.

Impact

Identified the underutilisation of Datix system functionality for improved risk and incident management through diagnostic review.

Simplified data capture through redesigned Datix forms, resulting in improved data quality, enhanced compliance, and reduced administrative time for clinical staff.

Provided recommendations for ensuring the sustainability of the Datix system through an options appraisal for future development or alternative solutions.

Developed trackers and dashboards for each module within Datix, supporting the Trust in enhancing its monitoring and management of risk and incidents.

Produced a user guide for the Datix system, promoting greater utilisation of the system across the Trust.

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