Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (Qopi) Certification Applicants And Outcomes

e16599 Background: In addition to achievement of a minimum threshold on a series of performance indicators, ASCO QOPI Certification requires that practices demonstrate adherence to 17 chemotherapy standards involving staff education, chemotherapy planning, preparation and administration, and patient assessment, consent and education. Methods: In the first year, 69 practices applied for Certification and submitted their policies, procedures, and de-identified charts for review at QOPI offices. 25 also received an on-site review during which nurses observe practice and review charts. Results: Applicants were practices with<3 (47%), 4-7 (47%), 8-15 (21%) and >16 (11%) oncologists. 15% of practices met all 17 chemotherapy standards upon central review; 33% had one and 20% had two unmet standards; the largest number unmet was seven (two practices). The standard unmet most frequently (77%) related to qualifications of staff. 1/3 did not meet the standards for intrathecal chemotherapy or double-checking prepared dose. 18/25 practices met a greater number of standards when reviewed centrally vs. observed at audit; one vs. eight unmet standards for one practice. 1/3 had policies for recording current medications and 25% claimed adequate pathology/staging documentation but did not achieve compliance at audit. Practices with deficiencies were allowed to revise policies, educate staff, and submit documentation to demonstrate compliance. Of the 69 applicants, 55 are certified and 14 are working toward Certification. Conclusions: All practices must attest to the 17 safety standards the during application process; however QOPI review identified deficiencies for the majority of applicants. Nearly all of these practices were eventually able to achieve QOPI Certification. Participation in the QOPI certification process provides practices with a systematic way to examine and improve practice procedures and identify areas to enhance the safe administration of chemotherapy.