Two PQI Alum Accelerator projects are now underway, each led by alum putting their quality improvement skills into action.
“Let it Flow: Unfreezing Barriers to Patient Flow through Empowering Physicians in the Cowichan District Emergency Department”
Leads: Dr. Ava Butler, Dr. Martin Lipinski, Dr. Katie Zhu, Dr. Kalen Leech-Porter, and Dr. LP Plante
This project is tackling emergency department delays at Cowichan District Hospital, where wait times have risen despite stable patient volumes. The team aims to improve physician flow processes and reduce “left-without-being-seen” rates, with special attention to safer, more equitable care for Indigenous patients. Their Accelerator phase focuses on mapping current workflows, engaging Indigenous partners, and co-creating a driver diagram and measurement plan to guide system-level change ahead of the new hospital opening in 2027.
“Engaging PQI Alum in Advancing Group Medical Visits for Improved Patient Access, Health Literacy, and System Efficiency”
Leads: Dr. Alicia Power and Dr. Phillippa Rehor
This project is laying the groundwork for broader adoption of the Group Medical Visit model by developing a practical toolkit and testing supports that help physicians bring the approach into their practices. The goal is to enhance patient access, improve health literacy, and strengthen team-based care through a quality improvement lens.
The PQI Alum Accelerator provides short-term funding and structured support for alum who want to explore an idea, understand current state, define gaps, and develop a project charter. It’s a great way to turn an early-stage concept into a ready-to-launch improvement project.
We still have funding available for one more Accelerator this year. If you’re an alum with an idea you’d like to explore, reach out to the PQI Alum team to learn more.
No Group Project funding has been awarded yet, those applications will open soon for alum who have completed the Accelerator phase and are ready to move into implementation.
