Patient views on surgeon-specific outcome reporting in vascular surgery: novel validated patient questionnaire study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: SSMD are used to enhance transparency, improve quality and facilitate patient choice. The use of SSMD is controversial, but patients' views on such data are largely unknown. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was therefore to explore the views of patients and to identify their priorities for outcome reporting in vascular surgery. METHODS: A prospective questionnaire study of 165 patients receiving care in a single academic vascular unit was performed. Data on patients' current understanding and use of SSMD, together with future priorities were collected. RESULTS: Of the 165 patients 80% were unaware of SSMD. 72% thought they should be made aware of the data, although 63% thought they were likely to misinterpret the results. The majority recognized the utility of SSMD to inform treatment (60%) and surgeon (53%) choice. The majority prioritize the patient-surgeon relationship (90%) and past experiences of care (71%) when making treatment decisions. A significant majority (66% vs 49%; P < 0.005) would favour hospital-level to surgeon-level data. The main patient priorities for future outcome reporting were waiting list length (56%), the quality of hospital facilities (55%), and patient satisfaction (54%). CONCLUSIONS: The aims of SSMD reporting are not currently being met, and both patients and healthcare professionals have shared concerns over the nature and usefulness of the data. Patients express a preference for hospital-level outcomes and prioritize the experience of receiving care over outcomes when making treatment decisions. Future outcome reporting should include patient-directed hospital-level metrics that are readily accessible and understood by all.