What Quality Metrics Should We Apply in Barrett's Esophagus?

Abstract

A GI Quality improvement consortium registry study published in this issue of The American Journal of Gastroenterology confirms the lack of adherence to surveillance intervals and guidelines in patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE). Given the widespread use of upper endoscopy for evaluation of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease and surveillance of BE, the lack of well-defined standard criteria for performing a high quality upper endoscopy calls for the establishment of valid quality indicators in BE endoscopy. These quality metrics should be able to help define and rate endoscopist performance for screening, surveillance, and management of patients with BE. Neoplasia detection rate and Barrett's inspection time could serve as key benchmarks. The issue of nonadherence and overutilization of endoscopy can be addressed by continuing education, feedback, and incorporation of better healthcare models.