Quality

The focus of quality improvement in healthcare is to bolster performance and processes related to diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Leaders in this space also ensure the proper selection of imaging exams and procedures, and monitor the safety of services, among other duties. Reimbursement programs such as the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) utilize financial incentives to improve quality. This also includes setting and maintaining care quality initiatives, such as the requirements set by the Joint Commission.

Are large health systems delivering better outcomes?

"Small quality differentials combined with large price differentials suggests that health systems have not, on average, realized their potential for better care at equal or lower cost," Harvard researchers found. 

 

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More than a feeling? Social isolation, loneliness linked to a higher heart failure risk

A new study published in JACC: Heart Failure offers more evidence that a patient's feelings can strongly influence their risk of poor cardiovascular health. 

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Coronary IVL now recommended at all cath labs, even those without surgical backup

The latest SCAI guidance on the safety of PCI procedures included a key change that could expand coronary IVL utilization throughout the United States. 

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Why are post-TAVR stroke rates higher at comprehensive stroke centers?

One of the more likely reasons is simple: specialty centers have better tools for identifying signs of stroke.

women burnout

Burnout is causing clinicians to say goodbye to healthcare

The latest findings highlight the worsening crisis of burnout among U.S. clinicians, who have frequently cited the COVID-19 pandemic as a major impact.

Mahurkar Acute Dual Lumen High-Flow Hemodialysis Catheter

FDA announces recall of hemodialysis catheters due to risk of leaks, adverse outcomes

“The use of the defective catheter may cause serious adverse health outcomes, including bleeding or the need for surgical removal and replacement of the affected catheter,” according to an FDA advisory.

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Age and workload affect reader performance for screening mammograms

Age, specialty training and reading volume give readers an edge over their peers when it comes to screening mammogram interpretations.

Interventional cardiologists can safely perform PCI without on-site surgical backup

The finding comes from a new expert consensus statement published by the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions. Several industry societies, including the ACC and AHA, have endorsed the document.