The application period for 2026-27 B/C/C volunteer leadership roles is open now through April 30 | LEARN MORE
Initiatives focus on continuous improvement, collaboration and patient-centered care
At the AOA, we are committed to elevating healthcare standards and ensuring the best possible patient outcomes. Our Quality Improvement initiative is designed to foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration and patient-centered care among osteopathic physicians (DOs) and healthcare providers across the nation.
With the goal of enhancing the quality and safety of healthcare services provided by DOs, the initiative is tailored to support healthcare professionals in delivering the highest standard of care to patients. Through a combination of education, resources and networking opportunities, we are dedicated to driving positive change within the healthcare industry.
Join the AOA Patient Safety Organization
The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) is now accepting applications for the inaugural cohort of the Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Leadership Academy.
This program is designed to equip osteopathic physicians with the knowledge, skills and leadership capabilities needed to drive meaningful improvement in healthcare quality and patient safety.
Participants will engage in:
Why apply?
Duration: Approximately eight months
Format: Virtual (recorded sessions + live discussions)
Cohort size: 8–10 participants
Each session includes:
| Program timeline | ||
|---|---|---|
| Date | Structured activity | |
| April 2026 | Applications open and program announcement | |
| Late April 2026 | Application review and cohort selection | |
| May 2026 | Program start and orientation | |
| May 2026 – January 2027 | Monthly sessions and cohort discussions | |
| January/February 2027 | Capstone presentations | |
| February 2027 | Program conclusion | |
Participants will complete a capstone project designed to apply program learning in a real-world setting.
Projects may focus on:
Participants will develop, implement and present their project as part of the program.
Applications are welcomed from:
Applicants should demonstrate an interest in leadership and improving quality and patient safety in practice or within an organization.
Leadership academy frequently asked questions (FAQs)
The program is designed to develop physician leaders who can lead and implement quality improvement and patient safety initiatives within their organizations and across the osteopathic profession.
Participants should expect to:
The program is fully virtual, allowing participants from across the country to engage.
Yes. Participants will be eligible to earn CME credit for participation in the program.
No. There is no cost to participate in this Leadership Academy.
Participants will complete a project focused on quality improvement or patient safety within their practice or organization. The project will be developed over the course of the program and presented at its conclusion.
No. Participants with a range of experience levels are encouraged to apply. The program is designed to support both those new to quality improvement as well as those with prior experience.
Participants are selected based on:
Participants are expected to actively engage in all components of the program, including reviewing recorded sessions, attending discussions and completing the capstone project.
Approximately 8–10 participants will be selected for the inaugural cohort.