 Say the words “peer review”
to a physician, hospital administrator or other hospital leader and you’re bound to provoke any number of anguished reactions. When it comes to the state of peer review in general, there is, unfortunately, no shortage of pitfalls and mistakes. And nearly everyone we know in healthcare agrees that this essential area of medical quality control represents a political, professional and organizational minefield.
It’s a real paradox. Especially in a profession where compliance and regulatory requirements collide with the humanity of practicing medicine. Contrary to widespread practice, we believe it’s absolutely critical that any decision about peer review be made with the utmost care, objectivity, sensitivity, timeliness and integrity. Yet that is too often not the case. Why? Because over the years, peer review has been handled with inadequate thought, planning, professionalism or care. The result? Honoring perhaps the letter but not the spirit of peer review in a way that threatens quality |
|
relationships, fails to improve the quality of patient care, satisfies none of the parties
involved and leaves medical staff leadership with dubious defenses in the event of
legal action or challenge.
Until now, no one has assumed the mantle in a cause that is in dire need of a champion. But at MDReview, we’re helping change that dynamic one excellent peer review at a time. Because that is all we do. We have been in your shoes. We deeply understand all the attendant issues and we recognize the serious consequences that poor peer review presents to all parties.
As you read on, you’ll see how our external peer review philosophy and process can help your hospital meet its medical peer review needs without the hassle and headaches.
And, along the way, you may just find your faith renewed in the promise of what peer review was always meant to achieve. |
