How can I learn more about the speakers or topics covered in the program?
We have a detailed course guide that contains in-depth information about the Certificate Program, including topics covered by competency. If you have remaining questions after reading the course guide, please reach out to pcqscert@uw.edu.
Are there any costs associated with the program?
The course tuition covers breakfast and lunch at all sessions, a course textbook, access to a Microsoft Teams channel containing resources and presentations, and access to additional learning materials. Any additional costs, such as travel, are the responsibility of the participants.
Can I attend virtually?
Yes, you can attend the sessions virtually via Zoom for one, some, or all the six sessions. Participating in sessions live, either in-person or virtually, is required for CMEs to be granted. Watching a recorded session after it happened will not qualify for CMEs. We send out a survey prior to each session asking if you will attend virtually or in-person. Your attendance information is very important for us to know for food and logistics planning.
What if I miss a session?
All sessions will be recorded and uploaded to the course Teams channel immediately after for your viewing access. If you must miss a session, you can watch the recording later. However, as mentioned, CMEs will only be granted for in-person or live virtual attendance, not for watching the recordings. If you miss a session and need help catching up on the material, please reach out to course faculty or staff.
Is parking available at Seattle Children’s Sand Point Learning Center (SPLC)?
Parking is available at SPLC. However, parking is limited, so we encourage attendees to arrive early, carpool from an offsite location, or take public transportation. If the SPLC parking lot is full, there is additional parking at NE 65 Lot at Magnuson, and a shuttle will take you to SPLC.
Some people in my project team will attend virtually while others will attend in-person. How will this work logistically?
Virtual attendees can participate in the lectures through Zoom. For breakout sessions and project work time, team members will need to make plans on how they would like to connect virtually. Details of this are up to the participants, whether you use a phone call or video conferencing through MS Teams or Google Meet. These video conferencing platforms offer whiteboard functionality, which can be helpful for collaboration.
Do I need to come to the course with an improvement project in mind? How detailed does my project need to be before starting the course?
Yes! Participants are expected to have an individual or group improvement project to work on during the course- learning through implementing is an important aspect of the course. Your project does not need to be fully developed before starting the course. However, we encourage participants to have a clear project idea, including a problem statement or goal, so that you can begin applying the course content effectively. Please read through the Improvement Project Selection, Scoping, and Mentorship Guideline document for more detail. If you are having trouble deciding on a project for the course or want advice identifying an appropriate mentor, please email pcqscert@uw.edu before you submit your registration and one of our course faulty will provide guidance.
I am a project mentor. What will my involvement level be in this program?
Thank you for volunteering to mentor a project! Please read the Improvement Project Selection, Scoping, and Mentorship Guideline document for more detail. Involved project mentors are immensely important to the course participants!
What resources are available to help me with my project?
In addition to the course materials and faculty guidance, participants have access to a range of resources such as reading materials, templates, and peer support. We also offer optional mentoring sessions for more personalized guidance, and course faculty are available for discussion and consultation.
Is there a final exam or project for the course?
The improvement project that participants work on throughout the course is an important component, and there is a poster session on the last day to share process and results. Working on the project and presenting to peers and leadership is important for learning through implementation. There is no final exam.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion of the program?
Yes, participants who complete the course requirements will receive a Certificate of Completion. This certificate will recognize your commitment to improving patient safety and quality and can be a valuable addition to your professional development. Participants may also claim up to 38.25 AMA PRA Category 1 CME credits.
Who do I contact if I have more Questions?
Please email pcqscert@uw.edu for any additional questions about the Certificate Program in Safety and Quality.