Who typically possesses authority within the quality improvement system?

The system leader typically possesses authority within the quality improvement system due to their overarching role in guiding organizational strategy and decision-making. System leaders have the ability to influence and drive initiatives, allocate resources, and ensure that the quality improvement efforts align with the overall goals of the organization. Their role often involves creating an environment that supports continuous improvement, enabling teams to implement changes effectively and sustainably.

While other roles, such as data analysts, team facilitators, and external advisors, contribute valuable insights and support to the quality improvement process, they usually do not have the same level of authority to implement systemic changes. Data analysts provide crucial information and metrics to inform decisions, team facilitators help coordinate efforts and maintain team alignment, and external advisors offer expert guidance and best practices, but the final authority to make decisions typically resides with the system leader. This hierarchical structure is essential for establishing accountability and ensuring that improvement initiatives are pursued with the necessary resources and support.