Quality Improvement Work of the MOC Recognized by UCSF Leadership

Quality improvement projects in support of UCSF’s True North pillars are an important part of the MOC’s work. One of these focused on albumin, an intravenous fluid commonly used in a variety of ailments. The project addressed the common use of this costly drug at UCSF. Of concern was the 1.2 million US dollars spent in direct annual drug costs and the fact that it is often used when other, less costly, alternatives exist. 

Between July 2018 and June 2019, a cross-departmental team, led by the pharmacy clinical supervisor, Ashley Thompson, and managed by the MOC’s clinical pharmacist, Kendall Gross, spearheaded an effort to reduce inappropriate albumin use at UCSF. This involved developing evidence-based guidelines, implementing indication-based clinical decision support, and an education and awareness campaign. Their work was recognized in June at the UCSF all manager’s meeting with the “Great Save Award” for saving $160,000 as a result of their work. Their work was again noted on September 16, 2019 by Mark Laret, CEO of UCSF Health, when he recognized the team with an award for “Outstanding Achievement in Challenging the Status Quo.” Congratulations to Kendall and the rest of the alumni team!