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The Journal of the Japanese Society for Clinical Microbiology |
Biblioraphy Information
| ArticleTitle |
Diagnostic Excellence: A Comprehensive Concept Encompassing Diagnostic Stewardship |
| Language |
J |
| AuthorList |
Kei Kasahara |
| Affiliation |
Department of Infectious Diseases, Nara Medical University |
| Publication |
J.J.C.M.: 35 (2), 126-131, 2025 |
| Received |
October 28, 2024 |
| Accepted |
|
| Abstract |
On September 17, 2024, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) released the Core Elements of Diagnostic Excellence in Hospitals, a comprehensive framework aimed at reducing diagnostic errors and improving diagnostic quality. This guideline goes beyond traditional "Diagnostic Stewardship," advocating for an organizational and multidisciplinary approach to support the entire diagnostic process. It seeks to reduce reliance on individual physicians and enhance diagnostic accuracy across the organization. The guideline's objectives include preventing diagnostic errors and delays, improving patient outcomes by reducing unnecessary testing and healthcare costs, and raising the overall quality of healthcare. It emphasizes the importance of leadership by hospital executives, multidisciplinary collaboration, and active involvement of patients, their families and caregivers in improving diagnostic accuracy. The document calls for hospitals to address diagnostic processes as an organizational priority. Currently, efforts are underway to establish structures for Antimicrobial Stewardship (AS) and Diagnostic Stewardship (DS), each exploring its role and approach. These specialized teams are designed to break down silos and foster cross-functional collaboration. Moving forward, it is anticipated that Diagnostic Excellence will serve as a core concept, enabling AS, DS, and other teams focused on infection prevention, appropriate use of antimicrobials and patient safety to work synergistically. This approach aims to create a highly efficient and beneficial one-stop organizational framework that serves both patients and healthcare professionals effectively. |
| Keywords |
Diagnostic Excellence (DxEx), diagnostic stewardship (DS), antimicrobial stewardship (AS) |
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