Quality assurance in specialized headache units in Spain: an observational prospective study

Abstract

Abstract Objective To assess the quality of the therapeutic approach in Specialized Headache Units in Spain. Methods An observational (prospective) study was conducted. Anonymized data of 313 consecutive patients during a defined period of time were analyzed and a comparison of performance in 13 consensual quality indicators between Specialized Headache Units and neurology consultations was calculated. Specialized Units and neurology consultations represented the type of provision that Spaniards receive in hospitals. Results The consensus benchmark standard was reached for 8/13 (61%) indicators. Specialized Headache Units performed better in the indicators, specifically in relation to accessibility, equity, safety, and patient satisfaction. Patients attended in Specialized Headache Units had more complex conditions. Conclusion Although there is variability among Specialized Headache Units, the overall quality was generally better than in traditional neurology consultations in Spain.

Keywords

• Headache
• Indicators
• Quality assurance
• Patient safety