title: Peer review: a review of the literature on the American experience 1972-1982.
abstract: The literature on peer review since its establishment by law in the United States of America in 1972 is examined. Important lessons for Australian psychiatrists and health care administrators emerge. The Professional Standards Review Organisations have been a costly bureaucratic exercise and the results have been doubtful in terms of cutting health costs. It is suggested that other mechanisms be explored in Australia particularly continuing education of practising psychiatrists.
mesh_terms: D003363:Cost Control / Q000379:methods; D007349:Insurance, Health, Reimbursement; D010380:Peer Review / Q000379:methods; D011366:Professional Review Organizations / Q000458:organization & administration; D011570:Psychiatry; D012955:Societies, Medical; D014481:United States