"Quality Specialist (4973)"

Under general direction, the Quality Specialist manages, performs and coordinates highly specialized and essential quality management activities for the Quality Integration Section of the Office of Correctional Medicine in accordance with policies and standards of performance. This position may require travel to, including but not limited to, correctional facilities.

25% Of the Time
Responsible for education and training programming for OCM staff, partners and stakeholders as to quality improvement plans, continuous process improvement initiatives, and quality improvement data analysis reporting; establishes and communicates clear and concise roles and responsibilities internally and externally in advancing quality improvement programming; Understands the stages of group development and is able to develop the team's capacity to collaborate and achieve sustainable improvement; leads by example to develop multi-disciplinary, cross-functional team capacity to perform improvement projects independently, illustrating the proper use of methodology and tools as the project proceeds through its phases.

20% Of the Time
Utilizing best practices and appropriate quality management tools, investigates, plans, organizes, interprets, observes and analyzes various sources of information and clinic workflows in support of quality management reports and University and/or departmental business operations. Conducts research assignments involving the evaluation, selection and compilation of data and information from a wide variety of sources; prepares reports which require the synthesis or integration of a variety of subject areas or the summation of the individual contributions of staff members or sub-units. Gathers and maintains statistical data for administrative reports, clinic utilization statistics, utilization reviews; reviews and analyzes of complex data provided by the staff, as well as from additional sources, including qualitative surveys, quantitative audits and evidence-based best practices and literature reviews. Provides comprehensive and timely reports and detailed analysis for administrative use.

20% of the Time
Participates as a consultant in the implantation of chart review tools, standards of care, outcome measures, etc. Researches and utilizing best practices and appropriate quality management standards and tools, investigates, plans, organizes, interprets, observes and analyzes various sources of information and clinic workflows in support of quality management reports and trainings and University and/or departmental business operations. Conducts research assignments involving the evaluation, selection and compilation of data and information from a wide variety of sources; prepares reports which require the synthesis or integration of a variety of subject areas or the summation of the individual contributions of staff members or sub-units. Gathers and maintains statistical data for administrative reports, clinic utilization statistics, utilization reviews; reviews and analyzes of complex data provided by the staff, as well as from additional sources, including qualitative surveys, quantitative audits and evidence-based best practices and literature reviews. Provides comprehensive and timely reports and detailed analysis for administrative use.

10% of the Time
Provides clinical expertise and participates in the a) design of audit methods and instruments to measure performance and service delivery, b) identification of opportunities for improvement, c) development of action plans for resolution of issues identified by OCM staff, stakeholders and partners, d) site visits and audits. Coordinates, assists, trains and evaluates quality management processes regularly in specific segments and as assigned. Performs routine inspections and quality tests. Performs inter-rater reliability as directed. Analyzes and makes recommendations for staff training needs. Identifies clinical problem areas and recommends correction of deficiencies. Develops, implements and maintains systems to ensure effective and high-quality health care.

10% of the Time
Reviews, evaluates, develops, and interprets OCM, partner and stakeholder policies and operational procedures and communicates updates to involved parties, including through formal training sessions. With input from OCM leadership and staff members, answers complex nursing inquiries and resolves problems that require the interpretation, explanation, and justification of quality management and programmatic policies and procedures. Produces documents which may be proprietary or highly sensitive and confidential. Documents may include, but not be limited to, standards, performance and accountability reviews which include mortality and morbidity studies. Recommends new training initiatives.

5% of the Time
Serves as a liaison providing authoritative information, assistance, and advice to departments, various constituencies, stakeholders, and individuals at all levels (including national, state, regional, community, and campus levels) and acts as a representative for the QMOE section and/or executives/administrators, as requested, which includes sitting on various committees and/or attending professional conferences.

5% of the Time
Produces documents which may be proprietary or highly sensitive and confidential in acceptable draft and/or final form from written copy, data analytics or meeting minutes taken by incumbent. Documents may include, but not be limited to, standards, performance and accountability reviews which include mortality and morbidity studies.

5% of the Time
Performs other related duties as assigned.

Credentials to be Verified by Placement Officer

1. Bachelor's degree as required by the position to be filled in the area of specialization inherent in the position may be required.
2. One (1) year (12 months) of Quality Improvement work experience in a clinical or healthcare related field.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSA's)

1. Knowledge of computer skills including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
2. Knowledge of process improvement methodology and tools
3. Knowledge of data collection methodology
4. Knowledge of basic statistical process control components
5. Knowledge of benchmarking tools and best practices
6. Problem-solving and team facilitation skills
7. Skill using CQI tools and techniques
8. Strong analytical skills
9. Ability to train, present to small and large groups
10. Ability to act as a consultant to clinicians and non-clinicians

Condition of Employment
Out of State Applicants that apply to Springfield vacancies in classifications in the occupational area of Professional, Semi-Professional, or Managerial will be subject to the following Condition of Employment: Pursuant to the State University Civil Service System, an out-of-state resident who is hired into this position must establish Illinois residency within 180 calendar days of their start date.