Communicating Throughout the DRIVE Program – Type 2 Diabetes

Communication throughout the DRIVE program is integral to a successful QI project.

Although it is important to communicate the DRIVE program to senior leaders to get their buy-in, they are not the only individuals that need to be engaged. Instead, the different phases of the DRIVE program also need to be communicated on a regular basis to the practice and/or health system team to keep them engaged and help them feel they are part of positive change.

There are different methods to be used and moments in the process where communication is particularly important, namely when:

  • Finalizing the initial plan by gaining input during staff meetings
  • Considering each quality improvement (QI) rapid cycle’s results
    • Post results in staff room or have dedicated time during regular staff meetings for updates
  • Educating the practice team to fill knowledge gaps
    • For QI projects that would benefit from staff training–such as making a strong recommendation for a vaccine–find time at staff meetings or hold a lunch and make learning fun!

Sustaining DRIVE Efforts

Once the initial DRIVE program is complete, it is important to continue sustaining efforts for improved health care quality and equity, identifying new insights, keeping team members engaged, and recruiting new Champions.

The following table outlines approaches to help sustain your efforts over time:

  • Introduce new elements into the PDSA plan
  • Introduce new QI activities
  • Maintain progress throughout the year

Launch a second cycle of the DRIVE program

  • Train new DRIVE Champions
  • Include the DRIVE program in other therapeutic areas
  • Transform the DRIVE program into a multi-year, ongoing platform

Making the DRIVE program a permanent part of the culture

If you have used a DRIVE Toolkit to improve health outcomes or need additional assistance, please contact us by filling out the form below.