Infectious Disease Providers' Knowledge of and Engagement in Quality Improvement

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Infectious Diseases
• Quality Improvement

Background:

• Physician engagement in infectious diseases (ID) improves patient outcomes.
• The extent of ID physician involvement and knowledge in quality improvement (QI) remains unevaluated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current level of engagement and knowledge of quality improvement (QI) among infectious disease physicians (IDPs).

Main Methods:

• A web-based survey was distributed to members of the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) who primarily focus on patient care.
• The survey assessed knowledge of and participation in QI initiatives.

Main Results:

• A 5.4% response rate yielded 200 participants, including 175 IDPs.
• 58% of respondents participate in QI projects, and 38% serve on QI committees.
• Barriers included cost, time, data resources, and lack of an ID-specific registry; interest in QI training is high.

Conclusions:

• IDPs are involved in QI, but gaps in knowledge and measurement systems persist.
• Low survey response rates may indicate broader engagement issues within the ID physician community.
• Addressing these gaps is crucial for advancing ID within a value-based healthcare system.