Review Article Evaluation of Quality of Cytopathological Services in a Rural Teaching

BACKGROUND: Cytopathology has become an integral part of patient care in medical services today, hence is a need of systematic critical analysis of all activities of cytopathology laboratory for better patient care. However, there is lack of specific data in literature about this issue. OBJECTIVES: This study was done with objective of evaluating quality measures in cytopathology services of a rural teaching institute and hence providing recommendation for improvement in various pre-analytical, analytical and post analytical phases. METHODOLOGY: All samples received in the month of February, 2011 in department of cytopathology of Krishna institute of medical sciences, Karad, were studied and followed completely from receipt of requisition to dispatch of signed report. OBSERVATIONS: Observations were recorded for Pre-analytical parameters viz utility of cytopathology as diagnostic tool, quality of clinical information and adequacy of sample collection and transport. Analytical parameters included cytopreparatory techniques, standards of staining and diagnostic accuracy. Post-analytical parameters were turnaround time, customer satisfaction and costs. Critical analysis for reasons of the results obtained was done and hence specific suggestions or recommendations were formed for improvement. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that quality of existin