Implementing PDSA Cycles to Expand Reach of Self-Management Education in the Post-COVID Era

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background COVID-19 reduced participation in our region’s evidence-based chronic disease self-management program (SMP), despite having expanded offerings to include diverse delivery modes (e.g. virtual, mailed toolkit, phone-based group support). Purpose The purpose was to test various approaches of disseminating the mailed toolkit (an independent study version of the SMP) to expand reach of the program. Methods We ran three process improvement (PDSA) cycles. We used electronic health record data, a participant survey, and implementer feedback to guide our decision-making process throughout the iterations. Results Toolkits reached populations that had not previously been exposed to SMPs: individuals with type 2 diabetes who did not attend diabetes education in the past year; individuals being discharged from acute care with an admitting diagnosis related to a chronic disease; and individuals referred by their provider to the program. Discussion Toolkit utilization will remain low for those who are not ready to make a behavior change. Running PDSA cycles provided the necessary information for our team to make decisions about future dissemination of the mailed toolkits. Translation to Health Education Practice Engaging in PDSA cycles can be a helpful tool for health educators when considering how to expand reach or engage new populations of interest.