Applying project management methodology to practice development enhances health outcomes (Poster Presentation)

Health outcomes are supported through the translation of evidence into practice yet professionals struggle to find effective ways of applying evidence in their daily practice. Implementing evidenced based practice within the local unit can be achieved utilising a project management for health professionals approach. Project management methodology is well utilised in business and industry to aid project completion and success. Project management skills are often utilised by managers in health care from a business /management perspective. The application of project management methodology to enhance health outcomes through practice development implemented by professionals at all levels from the ground up is a new and exciting application. This project management for health professionals approach has been developed over the last 7 years and taught to over 1000 health care professionals across Australia in a 13 week postgraduate subject with outstanding success. Project management for health professionals can enhance the implementation of research into evidenced based practice at the local level, address local health needs, enhance health outcomes and improve equitable access to evidenced based health care for clients.

Project management for health professionals is an innovative application of four advanced professional competencies:

- conducting local needs assessment and health promotion skills;

- project management methodology and leadership skills;

- evidenced based practice development through translation of research into practice; and

- evaluation research methodology.

This poster and presentation will discuss how the project management for health professionals approach can enhance the capability outcomes of professionals to be able to respond to a rapidly changing industry and to successfully implement practice development projects that enhance health outcomes.