Assessing nuclear medicine practices: a critical evaluation of QUANUM through a quality improvement perspective and its wider relevance

Abstract

Quality Management Audits in Nuclear Medicine (QUANUM) is an initiative conceived by the International Atomic Energy Agency to enhance global standards in Nuclear Medicine practices. Acknowledging the intricate regulatory frameworks and the necessity for multidisciplinary collaboration, QUANUM has gained global acceptance, demonstrating widespread implementation and positive impacts on patient care. This manuscript critically evaluates the QUANUM program through the lens of quality improvement (QI), by employing established and validated QI tools. Our analysis identifies areas of conformance, underscores key strengths inherent to QUANUM, and pinpoints further learning opportunities for continuous enhancement. Additionally, we assert that the insights derived from scrutinizing this global project within Nuclear Medicine, have valuable implications for departments aspiring for establishing good quality management systems, thereby contributing to the improvement of patient care.