Quality metrics in solid organ transplantation: protocol for a systematic scoping review

Area of Science:

• Transplantation research
• Healthcare quality assessment
• Medical informatics

Background:

• Solid organ transplantation is a vital treatment for end-stage organ failure.
• Current quality metrics for transplant programs are not well-defined.
• Establishing clear quality indicators is essential for safe and effective patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and describe existing quality indicators or metrics for patients undergoing solid organ transplantation.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of current quality assessment tools in transplantation.

Main Methods:

• A systematic scoping review of relevant literature was conducted.
• Searches were performed in MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials.
• Data extraction and screening were performed independently by two reviewers and appraised using established criteria.

Main Results:

• The review synthesizes identified quality indicators and metrics used in solid organ transplantation.
• Metrics were categorized based on the six domains of healthcare quality.
• Appraisal of metrics was performed using criteria for robust quality measurement.

Conclusions:

• The findings will inform the development and selection of appropriate quality metrics.
• Validated quality metrics are necessary to drive improvements in transplantation outcomes.
• This work supports the establishment of standardized quality assessment in transplant programs.