Interprofessional quality circles and an interprofessional network-Structural and quality characteristics of prenatal diagnostics in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

BackgroundThe aim of the study was to collect data on structural and quality characteristics from interprofessional quality circles (IQZ) and an interprofessional network in prenatal diagnostics (PND) in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Both approaches pursue the goal of ensuring quality in counselling and treatment in the field of PND.MethodsParticipants of both approaches as well as counsellors from pregnancy counselling centers were asked to take part using a questionnaire. The data were analyzed quantitatively using descriptive statistics and qualitatively based on the methodology of qualitative content analysis.ResultsIn total 79 out of 178 of individuals who were contacted, participated in the survey (44%). The results show that the content and working methods differ: in the IQZ, a specific PND case is presented and discussed more often than in the network (38%), where the focus is more on public relations. Respondents are satisfied with their work (IQZ: Mean = 3.9, standard deviation = 0.7; network: M = 3.9, standard deviation = 1.1). The exchange with colleagues was rated positively. The majority of participants (IQZ: 92%; network: 100%) assume that their work is known to the counsellors. The results of the counsellors could not confirm this (IQZ: 69%; network: 67%). The qualitative data analysis showed that suitable conditions (e.g., time/financial resources, transparent structures, cooperation of approaches, political anchoring) must be created in order to successfully carry out work.Discussion and conclusionThe study results show structural and qualitative characteristics of approaches to quality assurance in the field of PND. From the results the following needs for action can be derived: the optimization of knowledge transfer in the day to day work of the counsellors, but also to establish suitable conditions for working sucessfully in an IQZ or in an interprofessional network according to defined standards anchored at the political level.