[Concerted action program for quality assurance of European community hospitals as applied in Israel].
The concerted action program on quality assurance (QA) of the European Community (COMAC) was implemented in 14 hospitals in Israel. It was focused on prevention of pressure sores, preoperative assessment, prophylactic use of antibiotics in elective surgery and proper keeping of medical and nursing records. Mechanisms for quality assessment and interventions for improvement and monitoring were implemented. Improvement in QA infrastructure, processes of care in the project topics, and in QA awareness were found. Management involvement, previous motivation for professional improvement, behavioral strategies for change and having highly respected QA leaders were found to contribute to the development of effective QA. Professional associations and national authorities should be responsible for establishing support systems as well as promoting legislation, formulating guidelines, recommending allotment of resources, and developing educational programs.
Ronen
R
R
Fleischman Unit for the Study of Disability, Loewenstein Hospital Rehabilitation Center, Raanana.
Eldar
R
R
D005060:Europe; D006764:Hospitals, Community / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards*; D007557:Israel; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care