The AWARE Quality Improvement Department (QI) facilitates the continuous monitoring of quality assurance and regulatory compliance throughout the organization. Quality Improvement is an integral part of AWARE’s planning, operation, and service delivery. QI will support service lines in promoting, monitoring, and evaluating regulatory compliance and the quality-of-service delivery. While QI manages the measurement of compliance and quality goals, every employee of AWARE is vital to the process and to the success of AWARE clients and programs.
The QI is part of the Shared Resource Center services, which means it is a service dedicated to every employee and client with AWARE. AWARE Clinical Director, Traci Shinabarger oversees the team, which includes:
Rick Hamblin QI Operations Lead and HIPPA Compliance Officer
Alex Daniel, Quality Support Specialist
Jenna Munkres, Data Support Specialist
Haley Knight, Early Childhood Services Project Associate
As projects require, QI may also include AmeriCorps members or other project-based volunteer support.
To meet compliance requirements, the QI team assists all services lines in auditing, incident reporting and licensing. QI leads the organization of documents for proper case record security and release and for maintenance regional, national, and international accreditation. QI also maintains up to date and complete policies and procedures for all service lines.
QI reviews and makes recommendations based on client and stakeholder surveys as well as employee engagement surveys to support quality standards and adherence to our Unconditional Care Principles. QI engages supervisors and staff to be clear, creative, and proactive in our service delivery.
Perhaps best known for helping staff learn electronic systems, such as myEvolv, ReThink, MedCompass, and Office 365, QI is weaved throughout our lines and their efforts. QI provides reports and reporting training to track goals and outcomes. Current goals for QI include clear processes for audits and surveys, responding to rule changes with sound practice solutions, promoting a paperless practice, and streamlining tasks for the safety and well-being of all AWARE.
Quality improvement often lies in paying attention to small details that enhance the overall impression. Take door numbers buy on Bsign Store, for instance. A well-chosen, high-quality plate—whether made of brass for a classic touch or stainless steel for a modern look—can significantly elevate the door’s aesthetic and create a welcoming first impression. Materials and design should align with the door's style and surroundings. This principle applies universally: focus on details to achieve excellence.