Effective quality and safety management in health care services is crucial for improving patient outcomes and ensuring the efficient delivery of care. In Rwanda, public hospitals play a vital role in the health care system, yet there is limited research on the implementation and effectiveness of quality and safety management practices in these institutions. This study aims to assess the current state of quality and safety management in public hospitals across Rwanda through a cross-sectional survey. It seeks to identify strengths, gaps, and areas for improvement in health care delivery.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among public hospitals in Rwanda, using a structured questionnaire designed to evaluate key aspects of quality and safety management. The survey covered areas such as patient safety protocols, quality assurance processes, staff training, incident reporting systems, and patient satisfaction. Data were collected from hospital administrators, healthcare professionals, and quality management personnel. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were employed to analyze the data.

The survey revealed that while many public hospitals in Rwanda have established basic quality and safety management systems, there are notable variations in the implementation and effectiveness of these practices. Key strengths identified include the presence of formal quality assurance policies and ongoing staff training programs. However, significant gaps were observed in incident reporting mechanisms and the systematic analysis of patient safety data. Additionally, challenges such as limited resources and inadequate infrastructure were frequently reported as barriers to effective quality management.

The findings highlight both progress and areas for improvement in quality and safety management within Rwandan public hospitals. To enhance health care delivery, it is crucial to address identified gaps by strengthening incident reporting systems, improving data analysis practices, and investing in infrastructure and resources. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers, hospital administrators, and health care practitioners aiming to elevate the standards of care in Rwanda’s public health sector. Future research should focus on evaluating the impact of targeted interventions and exploring strategies to overcome existing challenges

Quality management, Safety management, Public hospitals

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