title: Implementing clinical paths in a managed care environment.
abstract: The survival of health care institutions depends upon a delivery system focusing on appropriate use of resources and controlling length of stay while monitoring clinical progress toward identified outcomes. Using a clinical path as a tool for managing resources, research activities, continuous quality improvement, and increased collaborative practice can enhance the professional practice environment and benefit patient care.
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Clark
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Steinbinder
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Anderson
mesh_terms: D019091:Critical Pathways / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D008329:Managed Care Programs / Q000458:organization & administration*; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration*; D017749:Total Quality Management / Q000458:organization & administration