Crossing the Quality Chasm

Crossing the Quality Chasm (pronunciation: /ˈkrɔːsɪŋ ðə ˈkwɒlɪti ˈkæzəm/) is a seminal report in the field of Healthcare Quality Improvement that was published by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) in 2001. The term has its roots in the English language, with 'crossing' meaning to traverse, 'quality' referring to the standard of something, and 'chasm' signifying a deep fissure or profound difference.

The report highlighted the gap between the healthcare that people should receive and the healthcare that they often do receive. It proposed a comprehensive strategy for reducing this gap, focusing on six key dimensions of healthcare quality: safety, effectiveness, patient-centeredness, timeliness, efficiency, and equity.

Safety

In the context of healthcare, safety refers to the prevention of harm to patients. The report emphasized the need for healthcare systems to prioritize patient safety and minimize the risk of harm.

Effectiveness

Effectiveness in healthcare refers to care that is based on scientific knowledge. The report stressed the importance of using evidence-based practices to ensure that patients receive the most effective care.

Patient-centeredness

Patient-centeredness is a healthcare approach that respects and responds to individual patient preferences, needs, and values. The report advocated for healthcare to be more patient-centered, ensuring that patient values guide all clinical decisions.

Timeliness

Timeliness in healthcare refers to reducing waits and sometimes harmful delays for both those who receive and those who give care. The report highlighted the need for timely care to improve health outcomes.

Efficiency

Efficiency in healthcare refers to avoiding waste, including waste of equipment, supplies, ideas, and energy. The report underscored the importance of efficiency in healthcare systems to improve quality and reduce costs.

Equity

Equity in healthcare refers to providing care that does not vary in quality because of personal characteristics such as gender, ethnicity, geographic location, and socioeconomic status. The report emphasized the need for equitable care to ensure that all patients receive high-quality healthcare.

Crossing the Quality Chasm