Publication Date
2009
Document Type
Thesis
Committee Members
Kevin Bennett (Committee Member), Nancy Elder (Committee Co-chair), John Flach (Advisor), Valerie Shalin (Committee Member)
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Abstract
Four mid-Western family practices were studied using three methods (observations, interviews, and an audit of patient records) in effort to discover the dynamics and constraints of their diagnostic testing processes. We have found further evidence that errors do occur at many of the steps in the processes, but that the patterns of those errors are not independent of each other and are a function of systemic factors unique to each practice. Furthermore, while many employees or steps in the process may be considered a source of error, they were also shown to be major sources of quality and safety in their testing respective systems. Safety was created when employees recognized the natural feedback loops that allowed them to learn to compensate and correct errors.
Page Count
151
Department or Program
Department of Psychology
Year Degree Awarded
2009
Copyright
Copyright 2009, all rights reserved. This open access ETD is published by Wright State University and OhioLINK.
