Trials of Quality Improvement in Imaging

• Published in: JACC. Cardiovascular imaging 2017-03, Vol.10 (3), p.368-378
• Main Authors: Chinnaiyan, Kavitha M., MD, Weiner, Rory B., MD
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: appropriate use; Cardiac Imaging Techniques - adverse effects; Cardiac Imaging Techniques - standards; Cardiovascular; Cardiovascular Diseases - diagnostic imaging; Cardiovascular Diseases - therapy; Clinical Trials as Topic - standards; Evidence-Based Medicine - standards; Humans; imaging; Patient Safety; Predictive Value of Tests; Prognosis; quality improvement; Quality Improvement - standards; Quality Indicators, Health Care - standards; Radiation Dosage; radiation dose; Radiation Exposure - adverse effects; Radiation Exposure - prevention & control; Research Design - standards; Risk Factors; Unnecessary Procedures - standards
• ISSN: 1936-878X; 1876-7591
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmg.2016.12.004

Abstract Cardiovascular imaging plays a central role in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Recently, increased emphasis has been placed on quality in cardiovascular imaging, and it is becoming a central priority for various stakeholders, including patients, physicians, and payers. The changing health care landscape and associated challenges imposed on cardiac imagers, including reductions in reimbursement and growing need for pre-authorization, have also helped bring quality metrics to the forefront. Continuous quality improvement initiatives provide the framework for the team of physicians, technical staff members, administrators, and other health care professionals to deliver high-quality care. Efforts to improve quality in cardiac imaging have started to form the foundation for numerous research studies in this arena, and although few in number, randomized control trials have begun to emerge. This review highlights quality improvement studies focusing on appropriate use education, reporting, and radiation dose reduction in cardiovascular imaging.