Thursday, December 05, 2013
Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care
Minister's Statement on Improving Quality Assurance in Diagnostic Imaging
Today, Deb Matthews, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, issued the following statement on the quality of diagnostic imaging in Ontario:
"I want to thank Trillium Health Partners for completing their external expert review of CT scans and mammograms, and I welcome their plan to implement a formal peer review program to further strengthen the quality of diagnostic imaging at their hospital.
We expect the highest standard of care from our hospitals and our dedicated physicians - as do Ontario patients. That's why, in September, I brought together a working group of experts to provide me with their recommendations on how to enhance quality assurance in diagnostic imaging.
While many hospitals already have good quality assurance processes in place, the advice I received is that more can be done province-wide to strengthen the system.
As a result, Ontario is taking action to strengthen our approach to diagnostic imaging. Working with our health partners, Health Quality Ontario will lead the implementation of a province-wide physician peer review program in all facilities where diagnostic imaging services are provided, including mammograms and CT scans.
Peer review has been found to be an effective method for enhancing safety and accuracy in diagnostic imaging in many jurisdictions around the world.
Going forward, we will also be looking at additional ways to strengthen health care quality assurance, which may include an accreditation program.
Our government is committed to ensuring Ontarians get the highest possible standard of care. That's why we are taking quick and decisive action to further enhance patient care."
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David Jensen
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