Assurance Mechanisms Research Articles

What is effective digital reading? A systematic review of the effectiveness factors of digital reading

Purpose The rapid development of digital reading has made it a mainstream reading method for the public, and scholars have conducted research on its effectiveness.The purpose of this study is to systematically summarize and generalize the factors that affect the effectiveness of digital reading in current practical research. Design/methodology/approach Retrieved the search results from the Web of Science database and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure database, collected the relevant literature in both Chinese and English on the effectiveness of digital reading, qualitatively coded the relevant literature, and conducted a systematic literature review analysis on the factors affecting the effectiveness of digital reading. Findings There are 37 factors that influence the effectiveness of digital reading, forming five factor themes, namely, the reading subject, reading environment, organizational support, technical support and reading text. The five influencing factor themes are further divided into three types of functional mechanisms, namely, driving, supportive and assurance mechanisms. Based on this, a research framework is proposed, providing a comprehensive approach for the research positioning of digital reading effectiveness. Originality/value A research framework is proposed, providing a comprehensive approach for the research positioning of digital reading effectiveness.

Physicians’ clinical experience and perspectives following a pilot, blended learning, point of care ultrasound course in Ghana- a mixed methods analysis

BackgroundPoint of Care ultrasound (POCUS) is rapidly gaining popularity in resource constrained settings. Optimising training is important to ensure safe and effective implementation. To expand POCUS expertise in Ghana, we co-developed and piloted a context specific, multi-disciplinary, blended learning programme, targeted at physicians of any grade or speciality providing acute care in the public health sector. In this retrospective mixed method study, we capture the “real world” experience of participants, using POCUS in their daily practice, as well as the barriers and enablers they perceived to implementation.ResultsEight emergency and internal medicine specialists and residents participated, working across three teaching hospitals, treating both general and specialist patients. They implemented each POCUS application taught, with cardiac indications, inferior vena cava (IVC) assessment, deep venous thrombosis (DVT) diagnosis, lung/pleural assessment and peripheral vascular access being most frequent at 3–6 times/week. An estimated 40% of patients could not have afforded any other diagnostic tests. They considered the pilot curriculum adequate for general practice and the majority of applications of low difficulty (71%). For cases sent for second opinion, they are self-reported that their findings were confirmed in 60–78% of cases. Perceptions about the relative advantage of POCUS over the usual approaches to diagnosing patients enabled implementation. Generally, they believed that POCUS improved their clinical decision making and that more certified training courses need to be run at lower cost to make them more accessible. All participants valued ongoing connections after training to ask for help and consolidate their skills. Continued evaluation and reflection on their POCUS practice to improve quality was unanimously reported as important, yet none had a formal system for this. The strongest barrier was access to equipment and maintenance. A lack of training opportunities and local mentors, and negative beliefs from other departments and hospital administration were further barriers.ConclusionOur new blended learning curriculum met the needs of physicians caring for patients with general and specialist presentations, with strong reported positive experience of improved bedside diagnostic capabilities, especially for the large proportion of patients unable to afford or access alternative diagnostic tests. Their experience drives the need for further training and for solutions to current barriers of equipment availability, training costs and lack of quality assurance mechanisms.

PERCEIVED STRATEGIES FOR ENHANCING QUALITY ASSURANCE ON SECONDARY SCHOOL PHYSICS TEACHERS IN KOGI EAST EDUCATIONAL ZONE

Quality assurance entails the systematic review of educational provision to maintain and improve its quality, equity and efficiency. It involves self-evaluation, external evaluation, staff evaluation, student evaluation and school evaluation. The purpose of the study was to investigate strategies for enhancing quality assurance in physics education in Kogi East Educational Zone. The study adopted descriptive survey research design. The population for the study comprised all the physics teachers in Kogi East. The sample size for the study consisted of 120 physics teachers which were selected from private and public co-educational secondary schools in the study area using random sampling technique. Two research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. The instrument used for collection of data was a structured questionnaire, titled: Physics Education Quality Assurance Questionnaire (PEQAQ), which was developed by the researcher and validated by experts. The reliability index of the instrument using Cronbach Alpha yielded 0.69. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed among others that ensuring functional quality assurance mechanisms in secondary schools in Kogi East provided positive feedback to educational management to enhance performance. Based on the findings, the following recommendation was made. Develop and implement targeted professional development programmes in Kogi State, focusing on research-based quality assurance, strategies and contextualized to address local challenges and needs.

Dual-Network Layered Network: A Method to Improve Reliability, Security, and Network Efficiency in Distributed Heterogeneous Network Transmission

This article delves into the routing architecture and reliable transmission service framework of dual-network layered networks, with a focus on analyzing their core design ideas and implementation strategies. In the context of increasing network complexity today, traditional single-network architectures are unable to meet diverse application needs. Therefore, dual-network layered networks, as an innovative solution, are gradually receiving attention from both academia and industry. This article first analyzes the key technical elements in the dual-network layered network architecture, including the optimization of routing algorithms, distributed consensus, reliability assurance mechanisms for packet transmission, and dynamic allocation strategies for network resources. Through in-depth research on these technologies, this article elaborates on the important role of dual-network layered networks in building efficient and stable transmission environments, providing important theoretical foundations and technical support for the construction and optimization of future network systems.

Enhancing postmortem diagnostics: over a decade of ISO 17020 accreditation and guidelines implementation in forensic pathology.

Forensic autopsies remain indispensable for accurately determining the cause and manner of death. However, pathologists face significant challenges inherent to the complex process of postmortem diagnostics (PMD), including the potential for diagnostic errors. The implementation of quality assurance (QA) mechanisms is crucial for minimizing these errors. Nonetheless, the lack of QA programs, specifically tailored for forensic pathology, continues to pose a significant obstacle. This article explores the enhancement of PMD after the adoption of ISO 17020 accreditation at a Belgian forensic institute in 2010. Drawing on over a decade of experience, it details on the development and implementation of label-specific standard operating procedures (SOPs) designed to address the various types of deaths in forensic practice. Additionally, it underscores the necessity of adapting international directives from leading organizations into effective local protocols, aiming to standardize practices and improve efficacy. Through a comparative review of existing international guidelines, this study provides forensic pathologists and institutions worldwide with practical strategies for qualitative standardization and improving their PMD.

The experience of implementing a social health insurance programme at health facilities in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Objective:To explore the experiences of key stakeholders, including hospital managers, clinicians, and hospital-based StateLife Insurance Corporation (SLIC) representatives, SCP's implementation challenges and successes.Methods: A qualitative descriptive exploratory design was employed across 38 empanelled public and private facilities inKP. Key informant interviews (n=103) were conducted until data saturation was reached, exploring barriers and facilitatorswithin the SCP's operational framework. Data were analyzed using NVivo software, applying a mix of deductive and inductiveapproaches.Results: Strengths and enablers included a comprehensive benefits package design, a robust third-party administrativesystem, and the digitization of health management information systems for efficiency. Implementation barriers includedlow reimbursement rates affecting service quality at health facilities, documentation issues hindering patient access, unevenavailability of services causing patient frustration, resource-intensive claim preparation with a slow reimbursement process,and a lack of quality assurance mechanisms.Conclusion: This study provides a nuanced understanding of the SCP implementation, highlighting the need for revisitingreimbursement rates, addressing documentation challenges, ensuring service availability, streamlining reimbursementprocesses, and strengthening quality assurance mechanisms. The SCP's comprehensive benefits package, effectivepurchaser-provider relationships, and digitization efforts emerge as key strengths that contribute to its success.Keywords: Sehat Card Program (SCP), Social Health Insurance, Implementation Challenges. Stakeholder Perspectives,Reimbursement Processes, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Predictors of beginning teachers’ teaching performance

IntroductionQuality education hinges on teacher quality. The multifaceted nature of teachers’ roles and their teaching performance necessitates a comprehensive exploration of factors influencing overall education quality.MethodsThis study employed a regression research design, utilizing an expert-validated survey questionnaire completed by 2,680 beginning teachers from the Department of Education across 16 regions in the Philippines. The study aimed to identify personal, educational, and professional characteristics that predict teaching performance as measured by the Results-based Performance Management System (RPMS).ResultsThe analysis revealed that among various characteristics, socioeconomic status (personal), grade point average (educational), and both the grade level taught and length of service (professional) were significant predictors of teaching performance.DiscussionThe findings underscore the need for teacher education institutions to adapt curricular delivery in a manner that reflects the practical realities of teaching and acknowledges situated learning. Recommendations include the development of quality assurance mechanisms, academic coaching and mentoring programs, and initiatives to strengthen financial literacy among pre-service teachers to enhance their future teaching performance.

An evaluation of a mentoring program in Emergency Medicine: A qualitative assessment using semi-structured interviews

Background Mentorship plays a crucial role in professional development, particularly in fields like emergency medicine. However, the dynamics of mentor-mentee relationships in this context remain underexplored. Understanding these dynamics is essential for optimizing mentorship programs and enhancing healthcare outcomes. This research investigates the factors influencing mentorship relationships in emergency medicine within the United Arab Emirates (UAE) context. It seeks to uncover the characteristics and dynamics of these relationships through qualitative analysis, providing insights into facilitators and barriers to success. Methods The study adopts a qualitative approach, conducting interviews with both mentors and mentees. Thematic analysis is employed to identify recurring themes in mentor-mentee interactions. The analysis delves into the supportive, communicative, approachable, knowledgeable, and empathetic traits of effective mentors. It also explores hindrances such as time constraints, resource limitations, random mentor allocation, and gender and cultural differences. Results The research findings underscore the pivotal role of mentors in fostering successful mentorship relationships. Effective mentors exhibit traits such as supportiveness, communication skills, approachability, knowledge, and empathy. Conversely, barriers to these relationships include mentees' behavior, time and resource constraints, random mentor allocation, and gender and cultural disparities. Conclusions While highlighting the importance of mentorship in emergency medicine, the study identifies the need for tailored mentorship approaches. It emphasizes the significance of selecting, training, and supporting mentors and optimizing mentorship programs. The research also suggests developing guidelines, aligning mentorship goals with healthcare priorities, fostering diversity, and integrating mentorship into professional development and quality assurance mechanisms. Ultimately, this study sheds light on the complexities of mentor-mentee relationships in emergency medicine, offering valuable insights for academic research, practice, and policy development in the UAE healthcare context.

Carbon Peak Prediction and Carbon Reduction Path Simulation under the Dual Carbon Target: A Case Study of Jiangsu Province

To build a low-carbon and harmonious society that supports sustainable development, China has set forth the significant strategic goal of achieving carbon peaking by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060, commonly referred to as the dual carbon target. The key to achieving this target lies in scientifically and accurately predicting the timeline for carbon peaking, followed by developing effective carbon reduction paths. Using Jiangsu Province as an example, this study utilizes energy and economic data from 2010 to 2020 and introduces a penalized Lasso-Kaya model to forecast carbon emissions. The applicability of deep learning models, such as LSTM, in carbon peak prediction is also validated. Based on this, three levels of carbon reduction targets were established: baseline, steady progress, and ambitious. Through parameter simulation, the study derives an optimal carbon reduction path for Jiangsu Province through 2060. Consequently, this paper proposes a quantitative assurance mechanism for carbon reduction that maximizes economic growth, providing a valuable reference for future policy intervention.

The Impact of Leadership and Quality Assurance on Organizational Performance of Private Universities in Banten

Leadership and quality assurance are two crucial components that play a role in the success of an organization, especially in higher education. Both have a close relationship and have a major influence on improving institutional performance. This study aims to explore the impact of leadership and quality assurance on organizational performance in private universities in Banten. The research method used is qualitative, with data collection conducted through observation and literature study. Once the data was collected, the analysis was conducted through several steps, including data filtering, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results showed that leadership and quality assurance are interrelated and mutually supportive. Strong leaders play a role in encouraging the implementation of an effective quality assurance system. On the other hand, a good quality assurance system also provides support to leaders in carrying out their job responsibilities. Both contribute significantly to improving the performance of private universities in Banten. Therefore, it is important to integrate leadership and quality assurance in all academic and non-academic activities. The implications of this study suggest that private universities in Banten should consider leadership development programs and robust quality assurance mechanisms as part of their strategic planning to drive sustainable performance improvements. Furthermore, policymakers in higher education could leverage these findings to formulate guidelines that reinforce the synergy between leadership and quality assurance across institutions, thereby enhancing overall educational standards and competitiveness.

The application of curriculum analytics for improving assessments and quality assurance in higher education

Curriculum mapping is a necessary process for establishing evidence of where learning outcomes are taught and assessed in higher education programmes. Mapping ensures the credibility of the institution and programme offerings and provides students with a clear understanding of what they can expect to learn and achieve during their academic studies. Well-mapped curricula that reference relevant standards and articulate aligned assessments are foundational for effective teaching and learning. Curriculum quality assurance measures are commonly accepted as a means of assuring accurate mapping. Assurance processes are, however, resource-intensive, error-prone and reflect human biases. Few studies have adopted an analytical approach to ensure programme quality assurance steps are traceable to a fundamental level of these maps: single courses and their assessment items. In this study, we adopted a novel curriculum analytics methodology to validate the mapping of professional standards to course-based assessments in a higher education degree program. Using an Australian initial teacher education programme as a case study, we applied and analysed results from a structured methodology that may be implemented across other disciplinary programs. Practical implications for quality assurance in higher education and the methodological contributions of this novel approach are further discussed. Implications for practice or policy: Quality assurance mechanisms in higher education serve to demonstrate that specific accreditation standards have been attained or maintained. An evidence-based approach is needed to ensure curriculum mapping and quality assurance. This study's novel curriculum analytics approach provides a robust foundation for demonstrating assessments’ compliance with accreditation standards at the degree program level. A data-driven approach for quality assurance presents opportunities for wider and scalable applications across other institutions.

FUNDAMENTALS OF QUALITY ASSURANCE IN THE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM

This study explores the critical issue of quality assurance in higher education systems, both in Kazakhstan and globally, where universities operate in a «consumer market» with students selecting educational programs, institutions, and resources. Based on an analysis of international and domestic research, the study aims to identify the foundations of quality assurance in higher education. The authors highlight key aspects of higher education quality, including student quality, teaching characteristics, academic regulations, and administrative support. Educational quality is examined within the context of international standards as a matter of national importance, with education levels serving as a foundation for economic development of both state and society. The research analysis reveals that various approaches, methods, and criteria for quality management are employed in creating systems for ensuring and assessing the quality of higher education institutions in Kazakhstan and abroad. These include the evaluative method of university activity quality management (SWOT analysis), Total Quality Management (TQM) strategy, and an approach based on the requirements of international quality standards ISO 9000:2000. The study notes that Kazakhstan has adopted a management model based on the ISO 9000:2000 international quality standards. This comprehensive review contributes to the understanding of quality assurance mechanisms in higher education and their implications for educational policy and practice.

Pathogen genomic surveillance status among lower resource settings in Asia

Asia remains vulnerable to new and emerging infectious diseases. Understanding how to improve next generation sequencing (NGS) use in pathogen surveillance is an urgent priority for regional health security. Here we developed a pathogen genomic surveillance assessment framework to assess capacity in low-resource settings in South and Southeast Asia. Data collected between June 2022 and March 2023 from 42 institutions in 13 countries showed pathogen genomics capacity exists, but use is limited and under-resourced. All countries had NGS capacity and seven countries had strategic plans integrating pathogen genomics into wider surveillance efforts. Several pathogens were prioritized for human surveillance, but NGS application to environmental and human–animal interface surveillance was limited. Barriers to NGS implementation include reliance on external funding, supply chain challenges, trained personnel shortages and limited quality assurance mechanisms. Coordinated efforts are required to support national planning, address capacity gaps, enhance quality assurance and facilitate data sharing for decision making.

The Influence of Academic Staffing Practices on Quality Assurance Mechanisms in Selected Universities in Uganda

Quality assurance in universities has always been the professional duty of the faculty. In Africa quality assurance mechanisms (QAMs) were initiated as soon as universities were established in the continent. Although in Uganda the teaching staff are at the center of QAMs, inadequacies in academic staffing practices in the areas of remuneration, quality and quantity of the teaching staff have been some of the challenges experienced by universities in the country. This led to the establishment of the National Council for Higher Education to promote QAMs. This study established the extent to which academic staffing practices influenced QAMs in selected universities in Uganda. The study adopted the systems theory where the academic staffs are part of the inputs universities employ to offer services. The study is based on the pragmatic paradigm and cross-sectional survey design. By use of the disproportionate stratified random sampling 180 and 120 students and academic staff members respectively responded to questionnaires. In addition 47 students were conveniently sampled to participate in focus group discussions and 20 managers were purposefully sampled for individual interviews. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyze and interpret the quantitative data and corroborated with qualitative data. The results presented a mixed picture; chi-square test for the academic staff is not statistically significant and for students is statistically significant. The study concludes that there is moderate influence of academic staffing practices on QAMs in the selected universities in Uganda. In order to enhance QAMs, the study recommends the need to further improve levels of remuneration, quality and number of academic staff in the universities.

Challenges and improvements in HER2 scoring and histologic evaluation: insights from a national proficiency testing scheme for breast cancer diagnosis in China

BackgroundIn 2022, our team launched the pioneering national proficiency testing (PT) scheme for the pathological diagnosis of breast cancer, rapidly establishing its credibility throughout China. Aiming to continuously monitor and improve the proficiency of Chinese pathologists in breast pathology, the second round of the PT scheme was initiated in 2023, which will expand the number of participating institutions, and will conduct a nationwide investigation into the interpretation of HER2 0, 1+, and 2+/FISH- categories in China.MethodsThe methodology employed in the current round of PT scheme closely mirrors that of the preceding cycle in 2022, which is designed and implemented according to the “Conformity assessment—General requirements for proficiency testing”(GB/T27043—2012/ISO/IEC 17043:2010). More importantly, we utilized a statistics-based method to generate assigned values to enhance their robustness and credibility.ResultsThe final PT results, published on the website of the National Quality Control Center for Cancer (http://117.133.40.88:3927), showed that all participants passed the testing. However, a few institutions demonstrated systemic biases in scoring HER2 0, 1+, and 2+/FISH- with accuracy levels below 59%, considered unsatisfactory. Especially, the concordance rate for HER2 0 cases was only 78.1%, indicating challenges in distinguishing HER2 0 from low HER2 expression. Meanwhile, areas for histologic type and grade interpretation improvement were also noted.ConclusionsOur PT scheme demonstrated high proficiency in diagnosing breast cancer in China. But it also identified systemic biases in scoring HER2 0, 1+, and 2+/FISH- at some institutions. More importantly, our study highlighted challenges in the evaluation at the extreme lower end of the HER2 staining spectrum, a crucial area for further research. Meanwhile, it also revealed the need for improvements in interpreting histologic types and grades. These findings strengthened the importance of robust quality assurance mechanisms, like the nationwide PT scheme conducted in this study, to maintain high diagnostic standards and identify areas requiring further training and enhancement.

Health professional regulation and provision of quality health services; cross sectional analysis of private health care providers in Wajir County, Kenya

Background: Health professional regulatory bodies oversee and enforce standards in healthcare to safeguard patient safety and prevent harm. However, international consistency in these regulations remains limited. The Kenya health sector relies on various bodies to enforce standards among professionals and institutions, albeit constrained by financial and human resources that hinder effective oversight. This study aimed to assess how regulatory practices- such as licensing, training oversight, inspection of practice, and quality assurance mechanisms- affect the quality of healthcare provided by private providers. Methods: The study targeted 108 healthcare providers from 36 private health facilities, primarily nurses and clinical officers. A sample of 86 participants was drawn using purposive sampling. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Results: The licensing of health professionals, training, inspection of practice, and quality assurance mechanisms collectively influenced 47.9% of the variation in service quality. Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between licensing (p=0.003), practice inspections (p=0.01), quality assurance (p=0.001), and service quality. Conclusions: Regulatory bodies play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare standards; however, their effectiveness hinges on tailored strategies that address local challenges and foster collaborative efforts towards sustainable quality improvement in healthcare services. Routine inspections, conducted in a supportive manner, are likely to ensure ongoing adherence to standards. Moreover, adequate resource allocation for regulatory compliance and continuous quality improvement activities, including the formation of internal quality improvement (QI) teams and the maintenance of regular QI meetings and assessments, was deemed essential.

Medical Tourism Management

Medical tourism, the practice of traveling abroad for medical treatment, has gained substantial attention in recent years due to its implications for healthcare delivery and tourism industry dynamics. This paper investigates the management strategies employed in medical tourism destinations, focusing on enhancing healthcare services and tourism competitiveness. Utilizing secondary data from scholarly articles, reports, and industry publications, the research synthesizes existing knowledge on medical tourism management frameworks, destination competitiveness factors, patient experiences, and healthcare quality metrics. The study employs a qualitative analysis approach to distill key insights and patterns from the literature, shedding light on effective management practices and their impact on patient outcomes and destination attractiveness. Findings reveal the importance of strategic planning, collaboration between healthcare providers and tourism stakeholders, quality assurance mechanisms, and marketing strategies in optimizing medical tourism experiences. The paper discusses implications for policy development, industry regulations, and sustainable growth strategies in medical tourism destinations. By leveraging secondary data sources, this research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of medical tourism management dynamics, offering practical insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and tourism professionals navigating this evolving landscape. Keywords- Medical tourism, Management strategies, Destination competitiveness, Healthcare quality

Construction and optimization of teaching evaluation and quality assurance mechanism of elective courses in art universities in Northeast China

Construction and optimization of teaching evaluation and quality assurance mechanism of elective courses in art universities in Northeast China

Why some homicide investigations go cold: a study exploring the experiences of the investigative review process by UK detectives

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to explore the review mechanisms’ efficacy from the perspective of cold case reviewers. Live homicide review mechanisms at the 7- and 28-day stage of an inquiry seek to prevent the case becoming cold (or unsolved) by ensuring lines of inquiry have been suitably identified and progressed. There is also a requirement to ensure the investigation was not swayed by faulty decision-making or cognitive biases. However, the use of the review processes in preventing unsolved cases is unclear, and not subject to much academic discussion.Design/methodology/approachThis exploratory study explores the review functions through the lens of cold case detectives, currently reviewing unsolved cases to identify progression opportunities. The study uses data from a seven-month, non-participatory observation period with a two-force collaborative cold case unit and 13 semi-structured interviews with cold case review officers. The observations and interviews were simultaneously analysed adhering to an inductive approach to Thematic Analysis.FindingsThe results show procedural guides (e.g. the Major Crime Investigation Manual) are important quality assurance mechanisms for review officers, helping ensure the appropriate and necessary lines of inquiry have been pursued. However, they were keen to emphasise the importance of intuition in progressing cases but felt continuously hindered by a lack of resources and large numbers of applicable cases. To the best of the authors’ knowledge this study is the first exploration of cold case detective’s experiences of the live review processes and how they may pose challenges in case progression for cognitive errors and biases. While the study has identified some challenges facing review officers in nine police forces across the UK, wider examination of policies, practices and mechanisms should be explored to develop the current procedural guidance (e.g. NPCC, 2021).Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge this exploratory study is the first exploration of cold case detective’s experiences of the live review processes and how they may pose challenges in case progression for cognitive errors and biases. While the study has identified some challenges facing review officers in nine police forces across the UK, wider examination of policies, practices and mechanisms should be explored to develop the current procedural guidance (e.g. NPCC, 2021).

Bee pollination in the shadows: The role of pseudopollen and agamospermy in the mycoheterotrophic orchid Gastrodia elata

Societal Impact StatementThe family Orchidaceae is renowned for its reliance on specialized pollinators and mycorrhizal symbioses. This study examined how the nonphotosynthetic orchid Gastrodia elata thrives on the dim forest floor, focusing on its pollination biology, particularly the chemical properties of pseudopollen and reproductive assurance mechanisms. It was found that G. elata mainly relies on Lasioglossum bees, attracted by its starch‐rich pseudopollen. Additionally, G. elata in the studied population can produce fruit through agamospermy (seeds from unfertilized ovules). Overall, the findings reveal that G. elata relies on fungi for nutrition and employs reproductive strategies such as mimicking pollen to attract bees and resorting to asexual reproduction when pollinators are scarce.Summary Mycoheterotrophy is an adaptation that allows survival in environments with low irradiance and minimal competition from autotrophic plants. However, such environments can negatively impact bee pollination, as most bees prefer open habitats. Despite this, the mycoheterotrophic orchid Gastrodia elata is known to rely on Lasioglossum bees for pollination. We investigated the reproductive biology of G. elata to understand how it overcomes pollinator limitation. Our research focused on the chemical composition and anatomical basis of G. elata pseudopollen (a substance that mimics pollen and may facilitate pollination), based on micromorphological and nutritional analyses, as well as observations of pollinator behavior. Additionally, we explored the potential presence of autogamy or agamospermy as mechanisms for reproductive assurance. The pseudopollen in G. elata originates from the disintegration of the adaxial parenchymatous tissue of the callus and is rich in starch. This contrasts with pseudopollen in most orchids, which typically originates from lip hairs and whose potential attractant is protein. Lasioglossum bees pollinating G. elata visit multiple flowers and actively collect pseudopollen. Furthermore, agamospermy serves as a reproductive safeguard in shaded habitats where insect‐mediated pollination is infrequent, at least in the investigated population. Our findings suggest that Gastrodia elata pseudopollen plays an important role in enhancing insect‐mediated pollination, particularly in relatively open habitats, while agamospermy ensures fruit set in shaded environments of the investigated population. Both pseudopollen production and agamospermy likely help overcome the pollination constraints posed by the mycoheterotrophic lifestyle.