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Improving Physicians' Use of Pelvimetry

Mark R. Chassin, MD, MPP, MPH; Sally M. McCue, MBA

JAMA. 1986;256(8):1012-1016.

Abstract
The capacity of educational programs to improve physician performance remains doubtful despite many evaluative efforts. This is especially true for programs sponsored by the federal government. We tested the efficacy of an educational program conducted by Professional Standards Review Organizations in reducing the inappropriate use of x-ray pelvimetry. This procedure may cause harm to the fetus, and there is little evidence that it is efficacious. We randomly assigned 120 hospitals in six Professional Standards Review Organizations to study and control groups. Physicians with delivery privileges at each study hospital participated in an educational program that discussed acceptable indications for x-ray pelvimetry. Pelvimetry use was similar in study and control hospitals before the program. However, after the program, pelvimetry was performed by physicians at study hospitals less than one third as often as by physicians at control hospitals. We conclude that educational programs can improve physician performance substantially and that such programs can be effectively conducted by federally sponsored physician organizations.

(JAMA 1986;256:1012-1016)

Author Affiliations
From the Health Program, The Rand Corporation, Santa Monica, Calif (Dr Chassin), and the La Jolla Management Corporation, Rockville, Md (Ms McCue).

Footnotes
The opinions, conclusions, and proposals in the text are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Department of Health and Human Services, The Rand Corporation, or the La Jolla Management Corporation.

Reprint requests to The Rand Corporation, 1700 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90406-2138 (Dr Chassin).

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