January 29, 2014
CALGARY — Alberta Health Services (AHS) today released new performance measures that will help Albertans easily understand how the province’s health system is performing.
The 16 new measures reflect a better balance across the spectrum of health care and better show health system performance.
Today’s announcement follows several months of planning and consultation with stakeholders, including clinicians, which led to a decision to streamline previously reported performance measures so they are easier to understand and interpret.
“We worked with stakeholders to develop performance targets that will be challenging, yet achievable,” said Dr. John Cowell, AHS Official Administrator. “Where possible, we also added measures that align with national standards because Albertans want to know how our ability to take care of them compares to other health services in Canada,” Dr. Cowell said.
The newly revised measures are also designed to be more balanced and include measures for acute care, community-based care, and better patient outcomes in the areas of seniors care, mental health and cancer care. Indicators focus on long-term care, continuing care placement, early cancer detection and mental health readmissions, emergency department wait times, emergency room wait times, and incidences of strokes and heart attacks.
The measures support the overall strategic direction of AHS, and are aligned with the Alberta Quality Matrix for Health. They are based on AHS’ most up-to-date annual performance (2012-13). Results for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2014, will be provided in July.
The performance measures reflect a goal and standard to be achieved over time and targets have been set for two consecutive years. The next update for this performance report is planned for July 2014 and will be based on 2013/14 information. At that time, the performance measures will include information at local levels and descriptions of actions for improvement. As needed, the measures and targets will evolve over time to reflect current priorities and progress.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
- 30 -
