Date of Learning Log: 29/11/2024

Time: 09:30-16:00

Learning Activity 1: Formative Workshop

In this learning activity, I made significant progress in understanding and applying the module learning outcomes to my assignments. I gained a clearer grasp of the marking criteria associated with the module, which is helping me develop my skills in providing constructive peer support.

The learning activity commenced with a detailed identification of the module’s specific learning outcomes. We explored how these outcomes are integrated into each lecture session, allowing us to see their relevance in real time. During this process, we utilized a Padlet to collaboratively identify and document our insights. This platform enabled me to articulate and reflect on what I had learned thus far, fostering a deeper understanding of the material.

As part of the activity, I was tasked with critiquing two pieces of literature using the established marking criteria. This exercise challenged me to apply my knowledge critically and engage deeply with the texts. Additionally, I participated in group work focused on these critiques, which fostered discussion and allowed me to hear diverse perspectives on the material.

This session proved to be invaluable for my assignment, as it provided me with a benchmark to assess whether my written work was aligned with the expectations of the module. I was able to identify areas that needed improvement and confirm that I was on the right track. Moreover, I had the opportunity to provide peer feedback to my classmates. Through this process, I not only shared my thoughts on their work but also learned from their ideas, which enriched my own writing skills and enhanced my ability to articulate constructive criticism. Overall, the activity was instrumental in my learning journey, equipping me with practical tools and insights for future assignments.

Learning Activity 2: Data collection, Audit and Development of evidence-based guidelines

In this learning activity, I learned about the use of context in evidence-based health policy development, explained what an audit is, identified the audit cycle, and developed my understanding of data collection.

An evidence base in health policy development refers to the collection of research, data, and evaluations used to inform and guide decision-making. It provides the foundational knowledge that policymakers rely on to make informed, effective, and efficient policy decisions that address health issues. The use and context of an evidence base include:

1. Informed Decision-Making: Evidence ensures that health policies are grounded in scientific facts and real-world data rather than assumptions or personal opinions.

2. Improving Outcomes: Utilising evidence from clinical studies, population data, and other research can enhance patient outcomes, public health initiatives, and cost-effectiveness.

3. Addressing Health Inequities: Evidence can identify disparities in health, helping to create policies that meet the needs of underserved or vulnerable populations.

4. Accountability and Transparency: Relying on an evidence base ensures that health policies are transparent and that decisions can be justified to the public and stakeholders.

5. Continuous Improvement: As new evidence emerges, health policies can be updated and refined to respond to evolving health trends, challenges, or technological advancements.

An audit is a structured method utilized to evaluate, assess, and enhance the effectiveness, quality, or results of a specific service or process. In the realm of healthcare, audits are generally carried out to confirm that health services adhere to established standards and regulations, to evaluate the quality of care, and to pinpoint areas needing improvement. There are two main categories of audits in healthcare:

• Clinical Audits: Concentrate on the quality of patient care by comparing actual practices with evidence-based guidelines.
• Health System Audits: Investigate broader processes, such as budgeting, resource allocation, and compliance with policies.

The audit cycle refers to the systematic process of conducting an audit, typically used in financial auditing, internal auditing, or any other type of compliance or performance review. It involves a series of stages that auditors follow to gather evidence, assess findings, and make recommendations for improvement or compliance.

Here are the key steps involved in the audit cycle:

1. Planning
   • Objective Setting: Establish the scope and objectives of the audit, understanding what areas will be reviewed.
   • Risk Assessment: Identify key risks that could affect the accuracy or reliability of the information being audited.
   • Audit Strategy: Develop an audit plan and methodology, including timelines, resources, and approaches to be used.
2. Fieldwork (Evidence Gathering)
   • Data Collection: Gather evidence through various methods like interviews, document reviews, testing, observations, and sampling.
   • Testing: Perform tests to evaluate the accuracy, completeness, and integrity of financial records, transactions, or controls.
3. Analysis
   • Evaluate Findings: Analyze the collected evidence to assess whether it aligns with the objectives of the audit.
   • Identify Issues: Detect any discrepancies, weaknesses, or non-compliance issues.
4. Reporting
   • Audit Report: Summarize findings and provide recommendations for corrective actions or improvements. The audit report typically includes an opinion or conclusion on the subject of the audit (e.g., financial statements, internal controls).
   • Communication with Management: Share the findings with relevant stakeholders, such as management, board members, or regulatory authorities, depending on the type of audit.
5. Follow-Up
   • Action Plan: Ensure that the auditee develops and implements corrective actions based on the audit findings.
   • Review: Revisit the organization after a certain period to assess whether corrective actions have been implemented and whether the audit objectives have been met.
6. Closure
   • Once the follow-up review confirms that necessary actions have been taken, the audit cycle is considered complete.

The audit cycle is usually iterative, as audits are conducted regularly to maintain accuracy, ensure compliance, and improve organizational performance.

Data collection is a crucial step in the audit process, especially in health policy development and clinical audits. It involves gathering information that will provide insights into the effectiveness, quality, and outcomes of health services. Effective data collection must be:

1. Systematic: The process should be structured and consistent, ensuring that data is collected in a way that is reproducible and valid.
2. Relevant: Data should directly relate to the questions being asked or the areas being audited. For example, patient health outcomes, resource utilization, or adherence to clinical guidelines.
3. Accurate and Reliable: Data must be correct, up-to-date, and collected from credible sources to ensure trustworthiness.
4. Quantitative or Qualitative:
   • Quantitative Data: This refers to numerical data, such as the number of patients treated, patient outcomes, or infection rates.
   • Qualitative Data: This includes non-numerical information, such as patient satisfaction or staff opinions, which provide deeper context to the numbers.
5. Ethical: The collection of data must adhere to ethical guidelines, including obtaining informed consent, protecting patient confidentiality, and ensuring the integrity of the data collection process.

Types of data collection methods include surveys, interviews, focus groups, observation, and the review of existing records or databases. Proper data collection ensures that audits are based on accurate and comprehensive evidence, enabling health policies and practices to be based on solid information.

By understanding the role of evidence, audits, and data collection, you can see how these components are interlinked in improving health policy and practice.

KSB ADDRESSED:

Knowledge:

Skills:

Behaviour: