Experience With a Practice Quality Improvement System in a University Radiology Department

In 2007, the ABR established and implemented Maintenance of Certification as a way to ensure radiologists' licensure and competency and to promote lifelong learning. Maintenance of Certification was instated for all radiologists receiving diagnostic radiology certificates starting in 2002. The 4 components of Maintenance of Certification are (1) Evidence of Professional Standing, (2) Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment, (3) Cognitive Expertise, and (4) Practice Quality Improvement (PQI). Creating a PQI program involves establishing basic goals that, when met, will best benefit a department's needs. Developing a PQI system that promotes quality improvement will benefit the individuals involved, the department, and the institution. Much good can come from these projects: improved patient safety, increased efficiency and throughput with resultant cost savings, improved outcomes, and revenue generation. In addition, these efforts ensure that faculty members and trainees understand the importance of quality efforts in daily practice. This article reflects the author's experience setting up a PQI program for the radiology department of a large urban teaching hospital. Six steps are suggested to guide the creation of an effective PQI program.