Quality Scholars - Betty Watari

My project is focused on finding ways to increase the patient volume at Health Alliance Hospital Mammography Department in Fitchburg Campus. The data I received shows that for the last 3.5 yrs. there has been an average of 28.71% utilization. This department had a 2D mammography machine and was only used for screening mammograms. We were able to get a 3D Mammography machine through a grant that was awarded with the assistance of Congresswoman Lori Trahan. Our goal is to improve our utilization from 28.71 to at least 35% by the end of December 2023. When I started the QS program, I felt ill equipped and under experienced to be there. The time to work on the projects was hard to find but I was able to learn time management and utilizing the whole team to get the work done. The learning sessions were vital for my project

So far, we are well above 35% as shown in the chart below:

Update

We increased our utilization in the 4^th Qtr. to 50% which exceeded our set goal of 35% by the end of December 2023. We are looking forward to our second set goal of an increase of 75% by the end of February 2024. The presentations in January was a wonderful event, and I am glad to have been part of the QS program 2023.

A ribbon cutting for the new 3D Mammography unit was held at the Fitchburg Campus on Tuesday March 26, 2024. Congresswoman Lori Trahan was in attendance.

Project Presentation PDF

Quality Scholars Program

The Quality Scholars Program is a professional development opportunity for any UMass Memorial Health caregiver interested in quality improvement and gaining the skills and knowledge to accomplish projects in their area. During the nine month program participants work with groups, mentors and Lean coaches to develop skills for quality improvements. At the completion of the course the participants present their projects at a graduation ceremony. This year there were three graduates from Radiology. - Betty Watari, Yasmin Carter, PhD and Kalyn Barger.