Developing key performance indicators for a lymphoedema service in Ireland using a classic Delphi technique

Introduction: This is a unique study and a first for lymphedema services in the Republic of Ireland as relevant national key performance indicators (KPIs) do not exist currently. Aim: To identify and develop KPIs for lymphoedema services in Ireland, using a classic Delphi Technique. Methods: A two-round classic Delphi technique was used to achieve consensus, initially among an Expert Panel of national and international lymphoedema clinical leads, followed by a panel of multi-disciplinary service referees and experienced clinic lymphoedema therapists. Results: After two rounds, a suite of seven KPIs was identified, agreed upon and accepted. The response rate of the expert panel was 93%, with 80% consensus of the multidisciplinary Delphi panelists. Conclusion: The suite of seven KPIs developed in this study will play an important role for internal service benchmarking and accountability, and may also contribute to the improvement of public lymphoedema services in Ireland and perhaps other countries around the world with a similar clinical approach to treating lymphoedema.