Verification of a quality management theory: using a delphi study.

BACKGROUND A model of quality management called Strategic Collaborative Quality Management (SCQM) model was developed based on the quality management literature review, the findings of a survey on quality management assessment in healthcare organisations, semi-structured interviews with healthcare stakeholders, and a Delphi study on healthcare quality management experts. The purpose of this study was to verify the SCQM model. METHODS The proposed model was further developed using feedback from thirty quality management experts using a Delphi method. Further, a guidebook for its implementation was prepared including a road map and performance measurement. RESULTS The research led to the development of a context-specific model of quality management for healthcare organisations and a series of guidelines for its implementation. CONCLUSION A proper model of quality management should be developed and implemented properly in healthcare organisations to achieve business excellence.