Findings from a HCFO-Sponsored Study on Public Reporting Highlighted in Cleveland.com Article

Findings from a study led by Judith H. Hibbard, Dr.P.H., professor at the University of Oregon, were highlighted in the May 11, 2010, Cleveland.com article “Reporting Surgical Fires Could Improve Patient Safety in Ohio, Experts Say [1].” The article discusses the lack of reporting of surgical fires in the state of Ohio. Dr. Hibbard completed HCFO-sponsored research that examined how hospitals react to public reports on their quality and how such reports influence consumers’ perceptions of hospital quality. Hibbard states, “The hospitals were primarily motivated to improve because of their public image and reputation. Just knowing that they’re not doing great isn't enough. Unless there’s something at stake, they’re not motivated to change."