In the summer of 2009, Kansas Department of Health and Environment QI teams used flowcharting to create a new information alert system. The QI team identified three major channels for information. The teams subsequently used their new flowcharting skills to design isolation activities for infected individuals through social distancing in the schools when a student presented with H1N1. Fortunately, H1N1 did not reach epidemic levels within the state. Developing the new communication system enabled local health departments to establish more efficient relationships with schools and Parent-Teacher Organizations for a broader range of communications, while the lessons learned from studying isolation techniques within schools are being applied by some school systems for any situation where a student exhibits symptoms of infectious illness.

Click here to view the high level social distancing H1N1 flow chart created to inform parents and school groups.