Quality indicators in rheumatology: valid for whom?

摘要

In this issue of the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, Van Hulst and colleagues' have published a paper on the development of quality indicators for monitoring of the disease course in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). By focusing on the monitoring of the disease course, Van Hulst et al have made an important and relevant contribution to the improvement of the quality of care for RA patients. Over the past decades, it has been consistently demonstrated that intensive monitoring of the disease course and the subsequent adaptation of drug treatment have significant positive effects on disease activity, radiological damage, activities and participation and overall quality of life.