Clinical pathways and diagnostic reasoning: A qualitative study of pediatric residents' and hospitalists' perceptions

Clinical pathways are evidence-based guidelines adapted to local settings. They have been shown to improve patient outcomes and reduce resource utilization. However, it is unknown how physicians integrate clinical pathways into their clinical reasoning. We conducted a single-center qualitative study involving one-on-one semi-structured interviews of pediatric residents and pediatric hospitalist attendings between August 2021 and March 2022. Interviews were audio-recorded and professionally transcribed. We utilized a qualitative descriptive framework to code data and identify themes. We interviewed 15 pediatric residents and 12 pediatric hospitalists. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts revealed four themes related to physician utilization of and experience with clinical pathways: (1) utility as a tool, (2) means of standardizing care, (3) reflection of institutional culture, and (4) element of the dynamic relationship with the clinician diagnostic process. These themes were generally common to both residents and attending physicians; however, some differences existed and are noted when they occurred. Clinical pathways are part of many clinicians' diagnostic processes. Pathways can standardize care, influence the diagnostic process, and express local institutional culture. Further research is required to ascertain the optimal clinical pathway design to augment and not inhibit the clinician's diagnostic process.