Overall quality improvement of an IVF centre: usefulness of a quality system in reproduction

Abstract

The aim of this report is to examine those factors that should be considered in assessing the overall quality of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) center and to evaluate the utility of a Quality System after Clinic Tambre received its accreditation certificate (ISO 9001: 2000) on December, 2002, for first time in Spain. Current methods to assess quality are reviewed: (1) Patient satisfaction, (2) Procedures, (3) Laboratory methods, (4) Counseling and information to the patients, (5) Staff training and development, (6) Identify indicators, (7) Problem solving strategy. Results: The accreditation of our Clinic has already brought many positive aspects such as the implementation of a quality system, the creation of an overall quality manual, the preservation of staff competence through regular training (in-house training and external training or further education) and the maintenance of functional laboratories and of reliable equipment. Furthermore, the traceability of all variables affecting the final results is guaranteed. Conclusions: We believe that ISO 9001 serves as an excellent worldwide standard. ISO 9001 is the highest level of specification that requires continual improvement through the use of quality policy, objectives, audit results, analysis of data, corrective and preventive action, and management review.