P198 Adherence To Infertility Guidelines With Regard To Treatment Policy. (15th August 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kersten, F; Nelen, W; Goddijn, M; Braat, D; Mol, B; Hermens, R
• Is Part Of: BMJ quality & safety. Volume 22(2013)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A67
• Page End: A67
• Publication Date: 2013-08-15
• Subjects: Medical care -- Quality control -- Periodicals; Health facilities -- Risk management -- Periodicals; Medical errors -- Prevention -- Periodicals; 362.106805
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjqs-2013-002293.202
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2044-5415

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Nowadays, prognostic models are increasingly being used in reproductive medicine. One of these models calculates the chances of conception for couples with unexplained infertility and subsequently indicates the right treatment policy. The Dutch national network guideline on infertility recommends the use of this prognostic model to prevent unnecessary treatment. This strategy is supported by international guidelines on the management of infertility (ESHRE and NICE). Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate guideline adherence regarding treatment policy for couples with unexplained infertility in 25 Dutch clinics. Methods: In this retrospective study, we assessed guideline adherence with regard to 1) the use of the prognostic model and 2) the right treatment decision. Data were collected from medical records. Results: In this abstract we present the preliminary data of ten clinics. At the GIN conference we will have the results of all 25 participating clinics. So far we included 208 couples with unexplained infertility. In 54% of the couples the prognostic model was used. In 69% of the couples the right treatment decision was primarily made. However, ultimately, 41% of all couples received unnecessary treatment. Discussion: This study shows that adherence to the guideline regarding treatment policy is not optimal. Despite the guideline recommendations, more than one third of couples are exposed to unnecessary treatment and risks. Implications for Guideline Developers/Users: Implementation of the guideline is not optimal. To improve guideline implementation a multifaceted strategy has to be developed and evaluated.