1887
Volume 2026, Issue 1
  • ISSN: 0253-8253
  • EISSN: 2227-0426

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease with heterogeneous clinical presentations influenced by ethnicity, geography, and healthcare practices. This audit evaluated adherence to key quality indicators for SLE management at Hamad General Hospital (HGH), a major public tertiary care center in Doha, Qatar, in line with international standards.

A retrospective cross-sectional audit was conducted between March and July 2024 involving 61 patients with SLE attending the rheumatology clinic at HGH. This audit assessed adherence to four selected key quality indicators: hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) use, annual proteinuria screening, annual ophthalmologic screening for HCQ-related retinopathy, and medication reconciliation documentation during the most recent clinic visit.

All patients were initiated on HCQ, with 11.5% discontinuing it due to adverse effects. Annual proteinuria screening was completed in 95% of patients. Ophthalmologic screening for HCQ-related retinopathy was documented in 65%, and medication reconciliation was completed in 72% of cases. The cohort represented a total of 21 nationalities, including Qataris who accounted for 31%–a proportion higher than their estimated 11.6% representation in Qatar’s national population.

While adherence to HCQ initiation and renal monitoring met international benchmarks, ophthalmologic screening and medication reconciliation rates were suboptimal and required improvement. Targeted system-level and educational interventions are planned to enhance adherence to these standards. Re-audit following implementation will be essential to assess progress and to sustain the quality of care.

© 2026 Safieh, Al-Allaf, licensee HBKU Press.
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2026-03-17
2026-03-17

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/content/journals/10.5339/qmj.2026.9
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Systemic lupus erythematosus: Auditing standard of care in Qatar
Qatar Medical Journal 2026, 9 (2026); https://doi.org/10.5339/qmj.2026.9
/content/journals/10.5339/qmj.2026.9
/content/journals/10.5339/qmj.2026.9
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  • Article Type: Research Article
Keyword(s): clinical audit, hydroxychloroquine, Qatar, quality indicators, SLE and Systemic lupus erythematosus

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