"Consistently good healthcare which continually improves is our aim."

Using data to improve surgical care Report (PDF, 839K, 2min 2secs)

About the Report

This report provides an overview of the early stages of the surgical profiles project - a collaboration between NHS QIS, the Information Services Division of NHS National Services Scotland (ISD), national clinical audits, and NHS Boards. The aim of the work is to lead to more effective and influential usage of data about surgery.

What is a surgical profile?

A surgical profile is a report presenting a suite of clinical indicators, setting data for local NHS Boards/hospitals in the context of the Scotland-wide picture. The indicators were designed to be interpreted and used locally, by front line clinicians and managers, to identify opportunities for attention. Each NHS Board was asked to
respond formally to its surgical profile, and a clinically led national panel assessed how the data were being used across the country.

Feedback

The feedback from NHS Boards showed that they are utilising the data to guide improvements in their surgical services, and the review panel’s conclusions were very encouraging. While it is too early to see a change in outcomes as a result of using the surgical profile, valuable insights have been gained into issues in the use of such data.

These will help NHS QIS and ISD refine their continuing programmes of work.

Press release

View the press statement released at the time of publication.

Equality & Diversity

NHS QIS is committed to equality and diversity. This document, and the research on which it is based, have been assessed for any likely impact on the six equality groups defined by age, gender, race/ethnicity, religion/faith, disability and sexual orientation. Details of the equality and diversity impact assessment are available here