Blog
Field notes for rural healthcare.
CAHPS changes, CMS deadlines, and practical quality guidance for rural and Critical Access Hospitals — from the team that runs these programs every day.
Leadership & teams
The Power of Data-Driven Leadership: How to Make Decisions That Matter
Gut instinct is good. Data + instinct is better. Discover how leaders can use data-driven decision-making to cut through the noise, reduce bias, and build stronger teams.
Maria Matarelli · 5 min read
Quality & QAPI
The Power of Feedback: Turning Good Talk Into Real Action
Feedback is not a box on a wall or a survey nobody reads. It is the backbone of real improvement, whether it comes from nurses, board members, or front-line staff.
Angie Schierer · 3 min read
Quality & QAPI
Are You Ready for Lean?
Your Quality Toolbox got you this far – but today’s challenges demand new tools, fresh thinking, and a leaner approach.
Angie Schierer · 3 min read
Quality & QAPI
Your Team Only Knows One Way? Here’s How to Spark Innovation Anyway
If your team has only ever worked one place, “the way we’ve always done it” feels like the only way. Here is how to spark fresh ideas anyway.
Angie Schierer · 4 min read
Quality & QAPI
Does Your Hospital Board Really Get Quality?
Here’s why that matters more than you think.
Angie Schierer · 4 min read
Quality & QAPI
Understanding the Difference: Lean Project vs. QAPI Goal
Think of Lean Projects and QAPI Goals as the dynamic duo of quality improvement – they work together, but they each have their own superpowers.
Angie Schierer · 2 min read
Quality & QAPI
Patient Safety Success Story: How One Small Hospital Cut Medication Errors in Half
Patient Safety Awareness Week rolled around in 2024, and a small rural hospital in the Midwest decided it was time to tackle a problem that’s all too common – medication mistakes.
Angie Schierer · 2 min read
Quality & QAPI
Patient Safety Awareness Week: It’s Everybody’s Job (And It’s More Than a Week)
Every March, hospitals across the country take part in Patient Safety Awareness Week—a chance to shine a light on the work that keeps patients safe.
Angie Schierer · 3 min read
Quality & QAPI
Is It Time for a Quality Department Facelift?
As you begin your overall evaluation, here is a quick checklist of items to determine if your department(s) need a revamp.
Angie Schierer · 3 min read
Leadership & teams
Communication vs. Connecting: What’s the Best Way to Build Trust & Have Influence?
Communication is the lifeblood of the fast-paced world we live in - but how often are we really connecting with others?
Angie Schierer · 2 min read
Leadership & teams
Building Better Communication with LEGO® Serious Play!
At Canopy Associates, we believe that building better communication starts with breaking out of traditional thinking – and maybe even building a tower.
Angie Schierer · 1 min read
Leadership & teams
Strategic Reflection & Planning: Leadership Lessons for 2025
As the curtain falls on 2024, it’s time to roll up your sleeves, reflect, and plan for a brighter 2025.
Angie Schierer · 2 min read
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