Getting Started with EPoSSI

What Is EPoSSI?

The Early Planning of Small-Scale Surgical Improvement Projects (EPoSSI) framework is a tool specifically designed to focus on the very early stages of project planning, which are known to be crucial to project success. 

EPoSSI outlines key steps, offers suggestions about what to do and what not to do, helps to guide decisions about whether to proceed with projects, and supports preparations for projects that will be implemented.

How Can I Get Started?

1. Read through the steps laid out in EPoSSI. Reading through these in their entirety will help you understand what is needed for your project to be successful. 
2. Identify the Quality Improvement Team. This team will work together for the entirety of the project. 
3. Complete the remaining steps in EPoSSI. Work through the checklist as a team, taking as much time as needed for sufficient planning. When you reach Step 8, verify that the planning steps are complete and the implementation sites are ready. If the project is a “go” move to step 9. If the project is a “no go” return to issues identified in planning.
4. Launch QI project! Officially launch the project, monitoring the data and assessing progress consistently. When the project timeline is complete, decide if the project should continue, if it should be modified, or if sunsetting efforts should begin. 

Download Early Planning of Small-Scale Surgical Improvement Projects Tool.

Next Steps

When you and your team are comfortable using EPoSSI—or if you are looking for additional resources—we invite you to download and take advantage of the Quality Framework Toolkit. These free resources are a comprehensive quality improvement toolkit, which can be used on its own or in conjunction with EPoSSI. Here are steps to get you and your team started. 

1. Read through the steps laid out in the Quality Framework. Reading through these in their entirety will help you understand what is needed for your project to be successful.
2. Download the Notetaking Tool, Project Charter, Data Plan, and Communication Plan. Determine which of the tools you would like to use and discuss how you plan to use them.
3. Plan and launch your project. If using EPoSSI, components 1–3 of the Quality Framework will be complete, as these focus on planning. If you did not use EPoSSI during this project, begin with component 1 in the Quality Framework. 
4. Monitor progress and outcomes. You will now focus on components 4–8 as you move through your quality improvement project. These components focus on process and outcome evaluations.

At the completion of your project, you are invited to submit your project for consideration in the ACS Quality Improvement Case Study Repository. The repository is a centralized platform of quality improvement projects implemented by participants of the ACS Quality Programs. Sharing your project allows others to learn from your experience, draw inspiration from your achievements, and generate positive change across organizations. Please email ACSQualityframework@facs.org to express interest in being part of this important initiative.