A benchmarking and evidence-informed gap analysis of the hemodialysis care provision in Iran.

BACKGROUND

Patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) are increasing worldwide. This is especially paramount in low and middle income countries in which ESRD patients are struggling to access specialist services e.g. hemodialysis (HD). Benchmarking analysis of the offered healthcare packages in several countries and comparison of the utilized alternative healthcare models for ESRD patients may be auspicious for institutional capacity-building in the existing healthcare facilities. Main aim of this study was to perform a benchmarking and evidence-informed gap analysis of the ESRD care provision in Iran and recognize the gaps that cause diversification in care quality for ESRD patients that hinder efforts for care quality improvement in the Iranian National Healthcare System.

METHODS

Dimensions of the Australian Anglicare Southern Queensland Clinical and Care Governance Framework (ASQCGF) were utilized as corner stones of a comprehensive clinical care plan that is essential in responding to HD patients' needs in Iran. An extensive literature search was performed at the next stage to recognize the gold standard core elements. The ascertained components were assigned to the five separate dimensions of the ASQCGF and a preliminary draft (comprehensive package of care for HD patients) was prepared. A checklist was developed at a later stage which was sent to a panel of expert consisting professional healthcare providers in nephrology and hemodialysis wards for their opinions. A gap analysis was conducted to evaluate current care processes of the Iranian HD patients align with the elements of the gold standard framework.

RESULTS

The identified deficits were classified in five areas in accord with the elements of ASQCGF as follow: A) supply of resources, medical devices and equipment support B) recruitment and endorsement of clinics and general work force C) infection prevention and controlling procedures D) care effectiveness monitoring and quality improvement E) provision of safe environment for both HD patients and hospitals' staff.

CONCLUSIONS

The study findings revealed considerable gaps in providing quality HD services to the Iranian HD patients that herald their therapeutic unmet needs and the shift that is needed to narrow down the widening organizational failure which fuels the current disenchantment among the both healthcare providers and HD patients.