Using Pathology Synoptic Reporting Data to Create Individual Dashboards for Pathologists and Surgeons

Abstract

Context.—Electronic synoptic pathology reporting using xPert from mTuitive is available to all pathologists in British Columbia, Canada. Comparative feedback reports for pathologists and surgeons were created by using the synoptic reporting software. Objective.—To use data stored in a single central data repository to provide nonpunitive confidential comparative feedback reports (dashboards) to individual pathologists and surgeons for reflection on their practice and to use aggregate data for quality improvement initiatives. Design.—Integration of mTuitive middleware in 5 different laboratory information systems to have 1 software solution (xPert) sending discrete data elements to the central data repository was performed. Microsoft Office products were used to build comparative feedback reports and made the infrastructure sustainable. Two different types of reports were developed: individual confidential feedback reports (dashboards) and aggregated data reports. Results.—Pathologists have access to an individual confidential live feedback report for the 5 major cancer sites. Surgeons get an annual confidential emailed PDF report. Several quality improvement initiatives were identified from the aggregate data. Conclusions.—We present 2 novel dashboards: a live pathologist dashboard and a static surgeon dashboard. Individual confidential dashboards incentivize use of nonmandated electronic synoptic pathology reporting tools and have increased adoption rates. Use of dashboards has also led to discussions about how patient care may be improved.