Document Type
Final Project
Graduation Date
Spring 5-15-2027
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice
First Advisor
Dr. Shelly Amsberry
Abstract
The Helping Educate and Lead Transparent Healthcare (H.E.A.L.T.H.) Initiative aimed to improve patient and provider satisfaction in a primary care clinic by implementing a brief, structured pre‑visit planning tool. Increasing patient complexity, limited visit time, and communication barriers often contribute to unmet expectations, inefficient encounters, and frustration among patients, providers, and staff. Guided by evidence that pre‑visit planning can enhance patient engagement and visit effectiveness, this quality improvement project introduced a concise pre‑visit form designed to help patients identify their priority concerns and record key information from their appointment. The intervention was implemented using a pre‑/post‑design within the PDSA framework. Patient satisfaction was measured using a modified PSQ‑18, and provider/staff satisfaction was assessed using a student‑developed questionnaire. While overall patient satisfaction remained high across both phases, baseline scores demonstrated a strong ceiling effect, limiting measurable upward movement. Post‑intervention scores showed greater variability and modest declines, reflecting early implementation friction and adjustment to new workflows. Notably, patients who used the form to take notes reported higher perceptions of thoroughness, comfort asking questions, and shared decision‑making. Provider satisfaction scores remained stable. Overall, the project demonstrated that even a brief, low‑burden pre‑visit tool can support clearer communication, greater patient preparedness, and a more structured clinic visit. Continued refinement and integration of the form may enhance long‑term workflow efficiency and strengthen patient‑centered care within primary care settings
Rights
The author holds the copyright to this work and any reuse or permissions must be obtained from the author directly.
Recommended Citation
Heuertz, Elizabeth and Truong, Man, "Helping Educate and Lead Transparent Healthcare in the Primary Care Setting" (2027). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects: College of Nursing. 56.
https://digitalcommons.unmc.edu/con_dnp/56