The National Prevalence Measurement of Healthcare Quality (LPZ) developed by Maastricht University researchers is an annual independent measurement tool used to assess the quality of basic healthcare. The LPZ has been used biannually since 1998 to collect data on various care problems facing healthcare institutions such as nursing homes, care homes, hospitals and home care organisations by generating unique data on the quality of basic healthcare. The LPZ has become a very extensive measurement tool that provides participants with quick and adequate feedback. To make the LPZ more effective and more user-friendly, an extensive update was carried out in November 2016 to revise the reporting component, the questionnaire, the input program and the website. The new web-based input program is fully compatible with laptops, tablets and smartphones. The new version also makes it easier to upload data from other sources. The strength of this tool lies in its ability to report on data from one's own institute and compare that data to national figures. The LPZ is used in the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, England and Turkey. Maastricht University uses the aggregated data for scientific research.

Better feedback

Institutions receive their measurement results on their personal dashboard within one week of carrying out the measurements. The tool includes a summary dashboard that administrators can use to assess key data as well as a detailed dashboard, which displays information per healthcare issue. This data is primarily intended for use by quality assurance officers, location managers and department managers. The institutional data can also be compared to national figures.

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LPZ focus areas

The following healthcare issues are assessed annually in consultation with industry professionals: decubitus ulcers (bedsores), malnutrition, incontinence, falls, pain and freedom-restricting measures. 'We've used the same measurement methods and the same indicators since 1998, which means we can track healthcare developments quite effectively,' explains professor and project leader Ruud Halfens. 'There's been much debate in recent months about the quality of care in nursing homes, and the 'black lists' drafted by the Health Inspectorate have caused quite a stir. As a result, our attention is starting to shift towards quality of life. In the end, our focus should be to provide high-quality healthcare that improves quality of life. Our independent tool gives healthcare administrators a better understanding of the results and the areas their institute can improve on, and shifts the focus from everyday issues to ensuring the continuity of good healthcare.'

For more information, visit www.LPZ-UM.eu

Participation fees apply. Visit the website for detailed rates.