Improving the plan do study act model: Examining the characteristics of the five silent killers affect on veterans and improving their care using the PDSA model

• Main Author: Lanning, Mark A
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: ProQuest Dissertations & Theses 01.01.2014
• Subjects: Health care management
• ISBN: 9781321455793; 1321455798

The five silent killers (Alzheimer's disease, Cancer, Heart Attack, Stroke, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) are diseases that are diagnosed in more veterans of military service than ever before. There was also a need for improved monitoring and diagnosis processes to aid in the care of veterans who have been diagnosed with any of the five silent killers. The primary literature used in this project highlighted the causes of the five silent killers. In addition, actual patient experiences as witnessed by the author provided an in-depth personal experience approach from voluntary participation in surveys. The data from collected surveys was analyzed to determine the trends of the five silent killers, their characteristics, how adversely affect veterans. The PDSA model contributed to the data analysis because a need was identified to improve the care of patients. The purpose of using the PDSA logic model was to determine the change that was needed, implement the change, study the results, and act upon the results. The analysis of the data collected was used to determine what causes the diseases and how the veteran's life can be changed without proper treatment of the diseases. The surveys submitted by veterans indicated their dissatisfaction with the care received at VA medical facilities. The lack of updated information systems allowed many veterans die needlessly as they waited for their medical care. The patient experience endured by veterans was poor with no improvement in sight. The data collected was limited to the actual data made available to the public. This research provided information for educating lawmakers and health care policy makers on the need for improved treatment options for veterans who have been diagnosed with one of the five silent killers.