Sourcebook : 2.3 How to avoid common problems

The most common tool for change in health care is an education program. It is also the least effective if done without other system changes. Education is very useful helping people adopt new changes that they are motivated to adopt, but education alone does not create lasting change. If your massive education campaign leads to no real behavior changes, you are going nowhere.

• Choose changes that cause a direct change in behavior. Implement a protocol, change a referral pattern, establish specific criteria, or standardize a previously erratic pattern of care.
• Use the right words. When describing the change, be sure to use words such as "revise, improve, implement, establish," not "continue, educate, study, recruit."
• Create prompts for correct behavior. Make it easy to participate; distribute a pain protocol card or an alternative therapy kit, and make these available to everyone.
• If the organization really needs an education program, include education about the PDSA model for change, and integrate education with implementation.

This text is derived from the book Improving Care for the End of Life : A Sourcebook for Health Care Managers and Clinicians.