The DJS Continuous Quality Improvement
Process consists of several steps:
 |
Self-Assessment
is a data-based management process
designed to structure ongoing internal evaluation of
the implementation of best practice standards in all
key areas of facility operations. Self assessment helps
the facilities to follow a proactive course toward continuous
improvement by recognizing needs, mapping goals and
achieving positive change. The focus is self-evaluation,
goal-setting and goal achievement, facilitating discussion
and problem-solving among facility staff to identify
and address operational strengths and challenges. The
findings and recommendations generated through this
internal evaluation process are utilized for continuous
quality improvement.
|
|
Comprehensive
Site Visits conducted by Quality
Review Specialist Teams to examine a wide variety of
youth and program records, observe facility operations,
and interview youth and staff. The Department designed
document review and interview protocols to ensure valid
and reliable findings that are based on information
from multiple methods and sources.
|
|
Timely Reporting
of all findings, initially in
an exit interview conducted at the conclusion of each
site visit, and subsequently documented in a detailed
report provided to the facility and to the Department's
senior administrative staff. The reports also identify
recommendations and opportunities for improvement for
each standard that requires corrective action.
|
|
Continuous
Improvement Planning is required
for all performance measures that are rated less than
"performance" status. The facility superintendent uses
the findings and recommendations in the Quality Improvement
Reports to construct working plans, which describe strategies
that will assist the facility to fully meet all Best
Practice Standards.
|
|
Technical
Assistance involves training,
consultation, peer coaching, learning forums and other
strategies provided to facility staff as they refine
operational and programmatic practices to fully meet
all performance standards.
|
|
Targeted
Site Visits to review progress
on the resolution of problems and the implementation
of strategies identified in corrective action plans.
Targeted reviews support ongoing evaluation and troubleshooting
in support of continuous progress.
|
