Supporting the Quadruple Aim Using Simulation and Human Factors During COVID-19 Care

Abstract

The health care sector has made radical changes to hospital operations and care delivery in response to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. This article examines pragmatic applications of simulation and human factors to support the Quadruple Aim of health system performance during the COVID-19 era. First, patient safety is enhanced through development and testing of new technologies, equipment, and protocols using laboratory-based and in situ simulation. Second, population health is strengthened through virtual platforms that deliver telehealth and remote simulation that ensure readiness for personnel to deploy to new clinical units. Third, prevention of lost revenue occurs through usability testing of equipment and computer-based simulations to predict system performance and resilience. Finally, simulation supports health worker wellness and satisfaction by identifying optimal work conditions that maximize productivity while protecting staff through preparedness training. Leveraging simulation and human factors will support a resilient and sustainable response to the pandemic in a transformed health care landscape.

Figure 1.

The Quadruple Aim and health system improvement challenges during COVID-19. Abbreviation: COVID-19, coronavirus disease 2019. This figure is available in color online (www.AJMQonline.com).

Figure 2.

Fishbone/Ishikawa diagram of components for system improvement using simulation and human factors during COVID-19. Abbreviation: COVID-19, coronavirus disease 2019.