HQI’s Signal Detection Program produces quarterly reports on unusual shifts in diagnostic and patient safety events, providing a statewide snapshot of hospital quality and safety trends. In 2024, after analyzing varying sets of data — one rooted in practice breakdowns, the other in diagnostic data — HQI staff identified several persistent challenges for hospitals:
According to new research from HQI, the number of gout cases treated in California emergency departments increased in 2023, particularly among men aged 60-74. Gout — arthritis from high uric acid, causing joint pain and swelling — is often triggered by red meat, seafood; treatment involves diet changes and medication.
Following significant disruption in patient care during the COVID-19 pandemic, prostate cancer discharges have rebounded to the highest level in nearly a decade. After a drop of 7% in 2020, discharges bounced back in 2021 and 2022. In 2023, however, discharges increased 11% above the previous average (excluding 2020).
Recent updates to the Hospital Quality Improvement Platform (HQIP) have made it even more useful for member hospitals. HQIP now includes: