Indicators of Quality of Care in Individuals With Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury: A Scoping Review

Global Spine Journal, 2021 · DOI: 10.1177/2192568220981988 · Published: January 1, 2021

Simple Explanation

This study identifies ways to measure the quality of healthcare for people with traumatic spinal cord injuries (TSCI). It looks at factors in the healthcare system, the medical processes used, and the outcomes for patients. The goal is to help healthcare providers, managers, and policymakers improve care, track progress, and standardize practices across different regions and countries. By understanding what contributes to good care, healthcare systems can work towards better results and quality of life for individuals with TSCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

21,574 cases from 60 studies

Evidence Level

Scoping Review

Key Findings

1
The study identified 87 indicators of quality of care, categorized into healthcare system structure, medical processes, and TSCI-related outcomes.
2
Healthcare system structure indicators include cost of care, infrastructure, education, time-related factors (e.g., length of stay), and patient satisfaction.
3
Medical process indicators focus on adherence to guidelines, screening for adverse events, patient medical assessment frequency, and the use of telemedicine.

Research Summary

This scoping review identifies and categorizes quality of care indicators (QoCI) for individuals with traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI). The QoCI are organized into three groups: healthcare system structure, medical processes, and TSCI-related outcomes, providing a comprehensive framework for assessment. The identified indicators can assist healthcare policymakers, clinicians, and health managers in monitoring and enhancing care for individuals with TSCI.

Practical Implications

Standardizing Healthcare Assessment

The identified QoCI can help standardize healthcare assessments for each country, enabling comparisons across healthcare systems worldwide.

Improving Clinical Practice

Clinicians can use the indicators to identify areas for improvement in their care practices and enhance the quality of life for individuals with TSCI.

Data Collection and Registries

The indicators provide baseline elements for comprehensive QoC questionnaires, facilitating data collection and the design of data registries.

Study Limitations

1
The study is a scoping review, which focuses on identifying key concepts rather than providing a comprehensive analysis.
2
Some indicators require resources to monitor over the long term, which may pose a challenge for implementation.
3
Healthcare systems differ significantly between developed and developing countries, which may affect the applicability of certain indicators.

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