Upon directly reviewing all 2009 test results, I learned the previous MRI and PET scans had both shown enhancement. My oncologist had missed the diagnosis months earlier. The cancer center had no electronic record or online access to test results. Their no system allowed physicians to take isolated reports home to call patients, with no access to or requirement to review the medical record. She did not connect the dots between my history, my symptoms, and my test results.
In September 2011 cancer was found metastasized to several bones. In spite of circumstances, my hope and faith is in my Lord.
In my ongoing dealings with two IPAs, four different HMOs, and now Medicare, I have learned first hand—as a patient with the quality professional’s eyes and ears—of our desperate need for a seamless continuum of care, care coordination and case management, electronic record and information sharing, and an effective quality strategy. Even so, I still believe that such a quality healthcare delivery system is achievable!
I cherish the history reflected in these pages, but I thrive on the growth, innovation, and, of course, improvement that represents the current environment and the future of quality in healthcare. Now this quality passion is passed on to you, my colleague. This is a wonderful time for the healthcare quality professional. Both the organization and the public are listening. Your organization will look to your expertise as it seeks to improve. Our patients certainly do deserve—and will benefit from—all of our best efforts.
Janet
Dr. Khalid Abulmajd
Healthcare Quality Consultant