Introducing maternal morbidity audit in the Netherlands

Abstract

Objective: To describe the panel audit process and to identify substandard care in selected women from a nationwide prospective cohort study into severe acute maternal morbidity (SAMM) in the Netherlands.

Design: Prospective audit of selected women with SAMM.

Setting: Eight audit meetings held throughout the Netherlands.

Population: All pregnant women in the Netherlands.

Methods: Before each meeting, SAMM details of selected women were sent to all panel members for individual assessment by completing an audit form. During a subsequent plenary meeting, findings were discussed and substandard care factors as judged by the majority of assessors were scored.

Main outcome measures: Incidence of substandard care and recommendations for improving the quality of care.

Results: Substandard care was identified in 53 of 67 women (79%). Specific recommendations were formulated concerning the procedure of audit and concerning local as well as national management guidelines.

Conclusion: Our findings reflect SAMM in the Netherlands and substandard care is present in four out of five women. Ongoing audit of women with SAMM is promoted both at local and national level.