Key features for definition of a quality improvement collaborative
| Feature | Description of key feature | Criteria for key feature |
| Essential | ||
| Multicentre | An approach that involves teams from a planned no of different sites | At least three sites contribute from start to end of the project |
| QI objective/need for improvement | Evidence that provides the rationale for the QI intervention and which informs the objective | An explanation of the problem, reasons or assumptions that were used to develop the project and reasons why the project was expected to work |
| Outcome measures | A defined set of outcome measures. These could focus on structure, process or (patient) outcome quality indicators | Data on measures are collected at two or more points in time to show a change (from baseline) |
| Expert team | QI facilitation by an expert team by providing sites with training in QI theory and methods | Sites have at least two sessions with the expert team during the planning and intervention phases of project |
| Optional | ||
| Networking among sites | Structured activities where teams come together to share learning, methods, ideas and experiences | Sites have at least two networking sessions/activities to share knowledge and experiences. |
| Data sharing | A model for improvement where data is fed back and informs small scale change within the individual teams | A description of data sharing methods |
QI, quality improvement.