What is POLaRIS?
POLaRIS stands for Performance, Organization, Learning and Real-Time Improvement System. IRETA developed this performance improvement core model over a number of years, recognizing that existing models were not adequate to grow into system-wide and sustainable change mechanism.
Implementation of POLaRIS creates an environment where front-line practitioners are invested in and direct the change process in conjunction with organizational leadership by creating learning communities. The focus is on the process not the person -- why did the process fail and how do we fix it -- creating a "blame-free" culture that encourages input from bottom up as well as top down. In this continuous learning environment, problems are spotted sooner and changed in real time. Customer feedback is incorporated immediately. Data collection is only one aspect of this larger change initiative.
IRETA’s unique approach combines leadership, principles from the Toyota Production System (TPS), Aloca Business System and other performance measurement efforts to support sustained care and recovery management for individuals with substance use disorders. The end goal-the ideal vision? To provide each person the right care, at the right time, for the right amount of time by the right provider.
The model also impacts workforce recruitment and development. Long stymied by turnover and low pay, professionals are now seeing ways that the performance improvement model can refresh their enthusiasm for the field through opportunities for input into processes that can shrink workload and improve care.
POLaRIS Projects: Past and Present
IRETA has completed its first pilot project at two sites in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. Outcomes of this project at an organizational level included real-time individualized reporting that was useful to clinical staff, and the integration of TPS principals and National Outcome Measures with clinical practice.
Currently, IRETA is collaborating with others from Pennsylvania, New York, California and other states to implement performance improvement processes and statewide performance measures.
With funding from the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS), IRETA is also conducting a POLaRIS pilot in New York state at two separate provider sites.
Future Implications for POLaRIS
The POLaRIS model, through incorporation of NOMs, is already applicable to state requirements to meet federal performance measure standards nationwide.
As we move forward with POLaRIS projects, IRETA is collaborating with many states to help them create state-of-the-art, federally-compliant substance use disorder treatment systems.
For more information contact amy@ireta.org or call 412-258-8565
More to Come! Stay Tuned!
Northeast Addiction Technology Transfer Center Regional Enterprise Tower • 425 Sixth Avenue • Suite 1710 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 • P: 412-258-8565 • F: 412-391-2528 Affiliations: IRETA
