Role of practice standardization in outcome optimization for CDH

Abstract

Standardization of care seeks to improve patient outcomes and healthcare delivery by reducing unwanted variations in care as well as promoting the efficient and effective use of healthcare resources. There are many types of standardization, with clinical practice guidelines (CPGs), based on a stringent assessment of evidence and expert consensus, being the hallmark of high-quality care. This article outlines the history of CPGs, their benefits and shortcomings, with a specific focus on standardization efforts as it relates to congenital diaphragmatic hernia management.