An evidence-based national quality measurement and reporting system

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Quality Improvement
• Health Services Research
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Physicians widely support evidence-based medicine and guidelines, but practice often lags behind.
• Limited focus exists on applying evidence-based practice to quality improvement (QI) techniques, innovation adoption, and measure selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail how evidence underpins a national quality measurement and reporting system (NQMRS).
• To explore the types of evidence utilized by the NQMRS.
• To examine the NQMRS's role in expanding the evidence base.

Main Methods:

• This study employed a descriptive and conceptual discussion approach.
• It analyzed the foundational role of evidence in a national quality measurement and reporting system.

Main Results:

• The NQMRS can utilize various forms of evidence.
• It has the potential to generate significant new evidence on the effectiveness of QI strategies and interventions.
• The system can also enhance the evidence base for established clinical interventions.

Conclusions:

• An evidence-based NQMRS requires strong leadership from governmental and private organizations.
• Focusing on evidence is expected to expedite quality improvement.
• Evidence-based approaches should encourage, not hinder, innovation.