Using poisson regression to compare rates of unsatisfactory pap smears among gynecologists and to evaluate a performance improvement plan.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate impact of a performance improvement (PI) plan implemented after initial analysis, comparing 7 gynecologists working in 2 clinics.


METHODS
From January to October 2005, unsatisfactory rates for gynecologists and clinics were calculated. A PI plan was instituted at the end of the first quarter of 2006. Unsatisfactory rates for each quarter of 2006 and the first quarter of 2007 were calculated. Poisson regression analyzed results. A total of 100 ThinPrep Pap smears initially deemed unsatisfactory underwent reprocessing and revaluation.


RESULTS
The study's first part evaluated 2890 smears. Clinic unsatisfactory rates, 2.7% and 2.6%, were similar (p > 0.05). Gynecologists' unsatisfactory rates were 4.8-0.6%; differences between each of the highest 2 and lowest rates were significant (p < 0.05). The study's second part evaluated 13,453 smears. Unsatisfactory rates by quarter were 1.76%, 0.67%, 0.38%, 0.70% and 0.76%; the first quarter's rate was higher than in other quarters. For the study's third part, 13 of 100 reprocessed smears remained unsatisfactory.


CONCLUSIONS
Gynecologists' unsatisfactory rates can differ. Analyzing differences can result in quality improvement. Reprocessing ThinPrep smears is an important means of reducing unsatisfactory rates but should not be a substitute for attention to quality in sampling.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock 79430, USA.
Mitchell S
MS
Wachtel
Warren G
WG
Hatley
Cornelia
C
de Riese
D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006176:Gynecology / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D065006:Papanicolaou Test; D010820:Physicians; D016012:Poisson Distribution; D002583:Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis; D014626:Vaginal Smears / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*