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Identifying & Solving Communication & Reporting Barriers at Mustard Seed Communities Jamaica

Company: Mustard Seed Communities

Major(s):
Primary: IE
Secondary: CMPSC
Optional: BME

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Mustard Seed Communities International (MSC) is an international non-profit organization dedicated to caring for the most vulnerable populations throughout Jamaica, Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Zimbabwe and Malawi. Founded in 1978, MSC provides loving and lifelong care to over 700 children and adults with disabilities, children affected by HIV, and young mothers in crisis. In Jamaica, Mustard Seed Communities cares for over 450 children and adults with disabilities, children affected by HIV, and teenage mothers in crisis. We operate thirteen residential homes, located in Kingston, Spanish Town, Montego Bay, Moneague, Mandeville, and Murray Mount. There is a consistent problem with breakdowns in communication and reporting across multiple functions areas. MSC seeks support with the following problems: 1) Caregivers providing daily medical care to children with disabilities do not complete the daily medical notes required. This can lead to a lack of continuity in care and lack of progress for the residents. Why? Desired deliverable: Survey of caregivers to accurately understand the barriers. Suggestions for Training/Incentives Needed Accountability structure 2) 24 hours staffing is required to care for the children with disabilities. Even when staffing levels appear high enough to meet the needs there are always challenges with having enough staff with the appropriate skills at the right time. Desired Deliverables: Survey of both caregivers and administration to understand why this is happening Recommendation for processes such as time off requests or cross training needed Suggestion for tool to help with scheduling 3) At MSC's largest location there is not a way to report repairs needed or breakdowns to equipment. There is no clear reporting structure, budgeting structure, or point person responsible. Desired Deliverables: - Understanding of current scope of problem. What are the biggest issues? Then prioritize - Determine tool for reporting and budgeting purposes - Determine incentives to make sure it is used - Determine who is accountable for making it happen You can learn more about this amazing organization here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eg9AvMKsZd4