In this session, we describe how to define measures that are aligned with the aim for improvement and make use of both quantitative and qualitative approaches that will resonate with students and interprofessional colleagues.  We review a method to assess variation and performance using basic statistical process control, making this accessible to use and teach.  We conclude by discussing common pitfalls in quality measurement and sharing resources for further reading on this vast topic. Throughout we provide a mixture of accessible clinical and lay examples.  Participants wishing to make the most of the session should consider in advance how they have seen health care measured in their lives in and outside of clinical practice – and where this has had positive and negative impacts on outcomes.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe approaches to measuring the quality of clinical care
2. Design measures that align with your goals to improve the quality of care
3. Understand principles of data measurement for improvement
4. Avoid common pitfalls in using data for quality improvement.