Quality Pillar Winners

Individual

Daniel Hoefer, MD, Sharp Grossmont Hospital

Dr. Hoefer led and contributed to proactive medical programs focused on changing the culture of health care for the elderly and those with advanced chronic illnesses. His efforts resulted in a reduction of hospital-induced delirium, decreased length of stay, as well as increased savings for patients and Sharp HealthCare — improving the overall quality of life for patients. Dr. Hoefer also helped reduce inpatient hospital mortality, emergency department visits and other healthcare services such as unnecessary tests and procedures.

Team

Pharmacy and Emergency Department Opioid Stewardship Team, Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center

The Pharmacy and Emergency Departments teamed up to significantly decrease prescriptions for opioids and benzodiazepines. The team used innovative and standardized processes to assess, classify and appropriately prescribe guideline-based medications for pain. Their system of tracking and monitoring the prescribing of controlled substances helped mitigate the risks associated with opioid overuse and inappropriate prescribing patterns. Their efforts improved quality of care as opportunities for intervention were identified.

Department

Vascular Access Services, Sharp Grossmont Hospital

Striving to deliver the highest quality of care, this department implemented several practices that saved time and money, and improved patient care outcomes. They reduced the overall Central Line-Associated Blood Stream Infection rate at Sharp Grossmont Hospital by 81 percent through rounding, audits, line insertion, maintenance, occlusion management, troubleshooting and education. Changes led to increased efficiency, reducing delay in care, and cost savings for patients and Sharp HealthCare.