Unit-based team concepts

To enhance communication and participation, unit-based teams use processes that are designed to encourage teamwork, like outcome-oriented meetings and frequent huddles. Teams also regularly analyze data to make sure their improvement efforts are on track. Advanced UBTs employ more sophisticated approaches that include adopting or spreading successful practices and getting input from Kaiser Permanente members and patients. 

To enhance communication and participation, unit-based teams use processes that are designed to encourage teamwork,  ike outcome-oriented meetings and frequent huddles. Teams also regularly analyze data to make sure their improvement efforts are on track. Advanced UBTs employ more sophisticated approaches that include adopting or spreading successful practices and getting input from Kaiser Permanente members and patients. 

UBTs use the Value Compass, which puts the member at the center of every decision, to focus the team’s performance improvement projects on achieving the highest quality, the best service, the most affordable care and the best place to work. UBT goals and improvement work should also be aligned with the priorities of the facility and region where the team is located.

To identify change they want to make in their departments and test them to see if they work, unit-based teams use tools such as the Rapid Improvement Model (also known as RIM+), process mapping and waste walks. Using these performance improvement tools has allowed UBTs throughout Kaiser Permanente to improve service, quality, affordability and the work environment. UBT Tracker is an online tool teams use to track their projects and tests of change.