gms | German Medical Science

Background: User-based quality measurements (PREMs, PROMs) are increasingly being used for internal and external quality measurement in health care in Germany. Therefore, two instruments for user-based quality measurement have been developed for midwifery. However, the implementation of such instruments is a challenge.The international literature describes various challenges in implementation up to the termination of projects where implementation had failed. This shows the necessity to address the question of a successful implementation strategy from the researcher’s point of view.

Aim/Research question: How can quality measurement using user-based outcomes in midwifery be designed to reduce barriers and increases acceptance?

Methodology: A two-stage qualitative method was chosen. First, experts (n=6) in the field of quality measurement in midwifery were interviewed using a guided interview to obtain an overview of the topic and identify potential barriers. The interviews were transcribed using T4^® and analyzed using MAQDA4^® based on content structuring content analysis according to Kuckartz.

Subsequently, in a co-creation workshop, the insights gained were examined in more detail with midwives working in practice and facilitating factors for overcoming existing barriers were sought together with the participants. For this purpose, the format of the World Café with six stations was chosen.

Results: The survey yielded findings in the following areas:

1.

basic attitude towards quality assurance,

2.

acceptability of user reported endpoints

3.

added value/benefit for own work,

4.

requirements for an implementing agency,

5.

possibilities to reduce efforts for midwives

6.

requirements for the instrument

7.

attitudes towards benchmarking.

Relevance: The survey provides guidance on how to promote the implementation of user-reported outcome measurement in midwifery. Implementation of user-reported quality measurement in midwifery also has the potential to promote a woman-centered approach to midwifery and to serve as a positive example for other health care settings.

Recommendations/Conclusions: The involvement of practitioners in the development of the implementation strategy of user-oriented quality measurement offers important hints for its successful implementation.

Ethics and conflicts of interest: A vote on ethics was not necessary. The research was financed by own resources. There are no conflicts of interest.