title: The dispersion within DRGs as compared with other grouping models.
abstract: Twelve classification systems - among them DRG - that could be used as the basis for an inpatient per-case reimbursement system were studied. A dispersion index was constructed to measure the relative homogeneity of the individual "cells" making up each of the 12 models. It was found that the index increased and, along with it, the inequity in reimbursement, as the number of categories making up the model decreased and the model became easier to administer. When both equity in reimbursement and ease of administration were taken into consideration, the DRG system ranked high. Implications for the development of a per-case system were discussed, with emphasis on hospital experience.
authors.forename: F K
authors.initials: FK
authors.lastname: Abou-Sayf
mesh_terms: D014487:Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, U.S.; D003953:Diagnosis-Related Groups; D006801:Humans; D007349:Insurance, Health, Reimbursement / Q000191:economics; D014481:United States