Improving Quality and Safety in the Endoscopy Unit (On-Demand) | October 2024-ASGE ACG QI for colonoscopy FAQ

ASGE ACG QI for colonoscopy FAQ_Oct24

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In October 2024, the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) released updated quality indicators for colonoscopy, a gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. These updates aim to enhance physicians' ability to assess performance and reduce post-colonoscopy colorectal cancer incidences, with the overall goal of improving patient care.<br /><br />The guidelines prioritize several key indicators for ensuring high-quality colonoscopy practices: Adenoma Detection Rate (ADR), Sessile Serrated Lesion Detection Rate, Use of Recommended Screening and Surveillance Intervals, Bowel Preparation Adequacy Rate, and Cecal Intubation Rate. These metrics are deemed critical based on clinical relevance, performance variability, and measurement feasibility. For instance, the ADR target has been increased from 25% to 35%, reflecting the importance of recognizing precancerous growths. Additionally, the Sessile Serrated Lesion Detection Rate is introduced as a new metric due to its association with colorectal cancer.<br /><br />Implementation of these guidelines involves sharing the updated indicators with quality committees and planning aligned quality improvement efforts. Teams are encouraged to update their performance measures and strive continually for improvement, even beyond baseline targets, as higher ADRs correlate with decreased cancer risks.<br /><br />For programs such as the ASGE Endoscopy Unit Recognition Program (EURP) and participants in the GI Quality Improvement Consortium (GIQuIC), these guidelines will influence quality metrics and annual reporting for initiatives like the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS).<br /><br />Endoscopy units are advised to focus on the priority indicators, adapting data collection processes and adjusting project timelines accordingly. The updated recommendations do not set specific deadlines for compliance, allowing flexibility for different units based on available resources and infrastructure.

Keywords

American College of Gastroenterology

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

colonoscopy quality indicators

colorectal cancer screening

Adenoma Detection Rate

Sessile Serrated Lesion Detection Rate

Bowel Preparation Adequacy

Cecal Intubation Rate

GI Quality Improvement Consortium

Merit-based Incentive Payment System