“While not every idea generated will be implemented or succeed, we want to try things and if they don’t work, try the next thing.”
Dan Florizone, GNWT’s Health and Social Services public administrator, says an improvement platform introduced over the summer has its share of hits and misses, but its trial-and-error process can help identify and respond to needed improvements.
While the initiative may be limited in its ability to address systemic healthcare gaps, it has already had some very positive impacts.
NWT’s Health and Social Services Authority say they have passed the halfway point of a 52 week initiative – looking into small steps towards changes across the territory’s health care system.
This is the first year of “52 Improvements in 52 Weeks” and since its beginnings this July, a number of new developments have emerged, including something called the “Chit Chat Cafés.”
The cafes were introduced as part of the programs’ first week at the end of June.
“This is an informal space for admitted patients and clinical staff to share experiences, celebrate successes, and discuss challenges,” said reps with the project in a June newsletter.
The chats have been taking place at Staff Stanton Territorial Hospital where patients and clinical staff meet informally to share an open dialogue about what is working and what isn’t.
Health officials say the cafe has led to patient-driven positive spaces, where yoga sessions and other activities are taking place regularly. According to health care authorities, the dialogue between patients and clinical health care professionals has helped to improve access to services.
“Access to services has also been enhanced, and lessons learned, such as skills for managing anxiety, emotions, and sleep, are now being shared more widely. These developments highlight the impact of staying connected to clients, active listening and responding to what matters most to patients and staff alike,” said hospital reps in the summer newsletter.
According to health care professionals at the hospital, the informal chat platform demonstrates the positive impact of “staying connected” and shows how “active listening” can help respond to challenges identified by patients and health care staff.
