Healthcare / Free editable template

PDSA cycle example: clinic waiting times template

A PDSA cycle helps a team test one small change, learn from it and decide what to do next. This worked example tests a day-before text message in a Tuesday outpatient clinic, from the aim and prediction through the results to the decision to adapt and try a second change.

This is a planning example for process improvement, not clinical guidance. Follow your organisation's policies and clinical protocols.

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PDSA cycle example: clinic waiting times example showing aim, measure and change idea, filled-in plan, do, study and act panels, cycle log and decision note
Everything in this example is editable. Replace the labels, move the shapes and adapt the layout to your work.

How to use this template

  1. Write a prediction

    In Plan, say what you expect to happen and by how much before you start. Without a prediction, the Study step becomes a description of what happened rather than a comparison you can learn from.

  2. Keep the test small

    Run the change in one clinic for a week or two, with the people who already work there. A small test is quick to undo and shows the practical problems, like the link that failed on one phone.

  3. Decide and plan the next cycle

    In Act, choose adopt, adapt or abandon and write down the next test. The example adapts because check-in improved while the overall wait fell less than predicted, which points to the next cause.

Questions about this template

Can I run a second cycle on the same board?

Yes. Duplicate the Plan, Do, Study and Act panels for the next test and add a row to the cycle log so each cycle's decision stays visible.

Do I need an account to use it?

No. Open the template and edit it in your browser. Your work saves on this device. An account is optional if you want to sync your workspace.

Can I export the finished diagram?

Yes. Use Export in the editor to save a PNG, SVG or PDF, or download an editable .epicdraw backup.

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