MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH PROGRAMS (Module 2 SLP Topic - Quality Essay

MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH PROGRAMS (Module 2 SLP Topic - Quality Management) - Essay Example The Arizona Department of Corrections Division of Health Services, even in the face of the questions posed above and many more, established a Total Quality Management (TQM) model in 2000 (2008). Several benefits have been reaped already due to this move including large savings to a constrained budget. It can be appreciated that under such dynamic conditions as being under a correctional facility, the departments under this division host several cultures and the issue of diversity cannot be ignored. Health Services offers comprehensive services covering medicinal, dental, mental health, occupational health and pharmaceutical help just to name a few. These services are carried out as per TQM policies, are well documented and backed up with continuous staff development programs (Shriro, 2003, p. 4). The use of modern technology in services such as the Remote Correctional Pharmacy System Access (CIPS) and Telemedicine reduces constrains on the labor force. These systems make it possible for secure transfer of medical details of transferred inmates from the county office to the requisite correctional facility without need for the physical presence of a corrections officer cutting down on internal failure costs. Video conferencing under the telemedicine program make it possible to gain medical interventions for provision of professional care to patients without actually leaving the facility thus reducing the exposure of the general populace in conventional clinics and hospitals to i nmates, a saving on prevention costs. e-Business solutions reduce travel and time as well as promotes continuity of care (24 - 31). The division competes for services of health care professionals with all other government departments and has not been spared from staffing problems. This increases the cost of care due to contraction of services to part-time staff that require higher