Trends in compliance with the national colposcopy guidelines

This study aims to assess trends in compliance with current colposcopy guidelines in 10 gynaecological units in four English counties since 1996; to identify constraints on compliance and suggest change in practice. All 10 gynaecology units in Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire and Berks...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology 2004-08, Vol.24 (5), p.552-556
Main Authors: Redburn, Julia, Sundar, Sudha, Usherwood, M, Roche, Monica, the Four Counties Colposcopy Group
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Colposcopy - standards
Colposcopy - utilization
Compliance
England
Female
Guideline Adherence - trends
Guidelines
Gynecology
Humans
Medical Audit
Medical procedures
Middle Aged
Practice Guidelines as Topic
Referral and Consultation - statistics & numerical data
State Medicine
Waiting Lists
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Summary:This study aims to assess trends in compliance with current colposcopy guidelines in 10 gynaecological units in four English counties since 1996; to identify constraints on compliance and suggest change in practice. All 10 gynaecology units in Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire and Berkshire participated. Data were collected prospectively by colposcopists from 23 500 new referrals across a 55-month period from September 1996 to March 2001. The Oxford Cancer Intelligence Unit performed collation, quality assurance and retrieval of data for incomplete records. Audit results were disseminated annually to colposcopists via the Regional Colposcopy Group. Colposcopy waiting times exceeded the standards, but waiting times for high-grade referrals showed statistically significant improvement. Six standards were achieved; relating to accuracy, appropriateness of management and outcomes. The seven unmet standards relate to waiting times, colposcopist's caseload, follow-up policy and the proportion of cervical epithelial neoplasia (CIN) on histology. Changes in practice are suggested, constraints on compliance are identified and the appropriateness of some guidelines is questioned.
ISSN:0144-3615
1364-6893
DOI:10.1080/01443610410001722635