Quality Dashboard Notes

Common factors

• Four years of data (2000-2003)
• Almost 1.8 million records
• Restricted to cases in EMSI counties
• Includes emergency & non-emergency cases

Caveats

1. Trend indications are hypotheses only.  Only simple linear trend hypotheses are included on these charts.

2. If the phrase "There is poor evidence of a trend!!" appears on a chart, the statistical tests applied by the charting tool indicate low confidence in the validity of the trend hypothesis.

3. The more "Special Cause Flags" on a chart, the less confidence one should have in the simple linear trend hypothesis that is indicated.

4. Data points in the last quarter of 2003 are not reliable -- some EMSCAN submissions from that period are still outstanding.  All other data points are reliable.

5. The charts only include what is documented on EMSCAN records received by EMSI.

Why these indicators?

• Not selected scientifically
• Low-hanging fruit
• Business considerations

Techniques

• Process for importing EMSCAN data into Microsoft Access
• BPCHART control charting tool