| Abstract | Purpose: This study addresses the need for a tailored HQI to assess and improve healthcare quality in Abu Dhabi. With the emirate’s rapid healthcare development and diverse population, existing frameworks often fail to capture its
que challenges. This research proposes a context-specific HQI to measure critical dimensions such as clinical effectiveness, patient-centered care, safety, and resource efficiency, providing a tool for performance evaluation and policy guidance.
Design/Methodology/Approach: The study employed a mixed-methods approach using predominantly a qualitative research approach, combining a comprehensive literature review, a modified Delphi process and focus group. The Delphi method engaged healthcare experts through two iterative rounds to evaluate and refine quality indicators. Indicators were assessed for relevance, importance, and data availability, ensuring alignment with Abu Dhabi’s healthcare priorities. The focus group on the other hand allowed for validation of the selected indicators. Both qualitative and quantitative feedback informed the selection and validation of indicators.
Findings: The study identified and validated 33 quality indicators, and 7 patient experience indicators tailored to Abu Dhabi’s healthcare context. Key dimensions included clinical effectiveness, patient-centered care, safety protocols, and resource efficiency. Experts emphasized the importance of measurable, actionable, and context-specific indicators, highlighting challenges related to data accessibility and implementation. The findings also demonstrated the role of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs), in improving data accuracy and real-time monitoring.
Originality/Value: This research contributes to healthcare quality measurement by developing an HQI that balances global standards with local needs. Its multidimensional framework integrates clinical and relational indicators, addressing gaps in traditional models. The study’s methodology, rooted in expert consensus, ensures the framework’s validity and applicability. The HQI provides policymakers, healthcare providers, and regulators with a practical tool for benchmarking performance, enhancing accountability, and guiding resource allocation. Future research may focus on validating the HQI in broader contexts and exploring advanced technologies for quality measurement. |
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