OBJECTIVE

To determine the methodological approaches to medical care quality control using the tools for continuous quality improvement.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We have reviewed the literature and current Russian regulatory legal acts on the use of medical care quality management tools in medical organizations. We used analysis and synthesis as well as expert assessment to determine the methodological approaches to implementation of medical care quality control system.

RESULTS

We have chosen Deming’s cycle (PDCA-cycle) as the basis for implementation of medical care quality control in medical organizations of the Russian Federation. An effectiveness of PDCA cycle in medical organizations has been confirmed in various studies. PDCA cycle is based on the simplest principles that are clear for most people. At the same time, the approaches to organization of internal quality control and safety of medical activities and JCI standards are specific for different medical organizations. PDCA-based quality control system for medical care is harmonized with current regulatory legal acts in Russian healthcare system for ensuring the quality of medical care.

CONCLUSION

Introduction of PDCA-based quality control system for medical care is only the first step towards formation of continuous quality management in medical organizations. Later any medical organization will be able to build a quality management system for all other processes linked with medical care. Gradual development of quality control system for medical care will reduce the number of errors related to the quality and safety of medical activities, reduce financial risks and increase patient satisfaction with medical care.