What is quality, and how is it measured?
There is currently no universally accepted definition of "quality of care." This article describes two aspects of measurement that contribute to an assessment of quality--the perception of quality of care held by patients and comparisons of clinical care to established standards. Ongoing monitors that lead to this assessment of quality in a large HMO are described in detail. They include patient satisfaction surveys, quality of care evaluations, comparative medical expense reports, cost-effectiveness studies, and a unique physician incentive bonus plan.
Beloff
J
J
D003258:Consumer Behavior / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D005431:Florida; D007193:Independent Practice Associations / Q000592:standards*; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D010816:Physician Incentive Plans; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires