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Framework for health care quality and evidence-based practice in radiology departments: A regional study on
Rui Pedro Pereira de Almeida1, Carlos Alberto da Silva2, Zenewton André da Silva Gama3
1Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy Department, Center for Studies and Development in Health (CES), University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal; CHCR - Comprehensive Health Research Center. CICSNOVA - Interdisciplinary Centre of Social Sciences. University of Évora, Évora, Portugal; APIMR, Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy Portuguese Association; PhD Programme in Health Sciences, University of Murcia, Spain.
Introduction:
The main goals of this study were to describe, in an integrated and multidimensional way, the conditions related to the quality of care in radiology departments from Algarve (Portugal), to assess the perspective of radiographers on the use of scientific evidence in clinical practice and to validate a model that characterizes the conditions for continuous improvement.
Methods:
A cross sectional study was performed in four radiology departments from public and private healthcare facilities from Algarve region (Portugal). A paper-based survey was sent to all radiographers to assess the quality systems implemented in their radiology departments and their perspective on the use of scientific evidence in clinical practice.
Results:
In total, 62 radiographers (61.4%) completed the survey. The quality dimensions that obtained the highest degree of compliance were the existence of quality assurance and improvement activities (43.0%), existence of standards in clinical practice of radiographers (42.7%) and the existence of special provisions (37.6%). The quality dimension related to patient's involvement was the one with the lowest level of compliance. Moreover, from the radiographers perspective, positive responses were obtained related to evidence-based actions (83.0%), sources of evidence (76.0%) and the significance of research activities (74.0%).
Conclusion:
These findings suggest that a new framework based on four factors (Support for Information; Organizational Capability to Technical Quality of Care; Patient Involvement and Evidence-Based Radiology), should be considered in the establishment of strategic policies that better define the provision of diagnostic procedures and professional practices in radiology departments from Algarve region, based on quality improvement systems and better patient safety.
Implications For Practice:
There is a need to include patients in the decision-making process, to involve radiographers in quality assurance and improvement activities and to implement quality monitoring mechanisms within radiology departments under study.
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