Using concept mapping to design an indicator framework for addiction treatment centres

Abstract

Objective. The objective of this study is to determine an indicator framework for addiction treatment centres based on the demands of stakeholders and in alignment with the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) Excellence Model. Setting. The setting is the Jellinek Centre based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, which serves as a prototype for an addiction treatment centre. Method. Concept mapping was used in the construction of the indicator framework. During the 1-day workshop, 16 stake-holders generated, prioritized and sorted 73 items concerning quality and performance. Multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis was applied in constructing a framework consisting of two dimensions and eight clusters. Results. The horizontal axis of the indicator framework is named 'Organization' and has two poles, namely, 'Processes' and 'Results'. The vertical axis is named 'Task' and the poles are named 'Efficient treatment' and 'Prevention programs'. The eight clusters in the two-dimensional framework are arranged in the following, prioritized sequence: 'Efficient treatment network', 'Effective service', 'Target group', 'Quality of life', 'Efficient service', 'Knowledge transfer', 'Reducing addiction related problems', and 'Prevention programs'. The most important items in the framework are: 'patients are satisfied with their treatment', 'early interventions', and 'efficient treatment chain'. Conclusion. The indicator framework aligns with three clusters of the results criteria of the EFQM Excellence Model. It is based on the stakeholders' perspectives and is believed to be specific for addiction treatment centres. The study demonstrates that concept mapping is a suitable strategy for generating indicator frameworks. © The Author 2005. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of International Society for Quality in Health Care; all rights reserved.