Shifting to a new paradigm to measure clinical outcomes.
Most clinical outcomes monitoring systems have relied on paper- and pencil-driven forms and/or interviews to collect information. The following article outlines some methodological and logistical problems inherent in these approaches, as well as describing the implementation of a ground-breaking new effort in how outcomes data are collected and analyzed. This computer-assisted interview approach can be less costly, provide more accurate information, allow for a broader range of questions to be addressed and even lead to a new paradigm for outcomes management programs--one that is practical in real-world settings and offers clinicians instant norms. Decision-makers in behavioral healthcare organizations can use the principles described here to develop systems tailored to their organizations' specific needs.
Strategic Advantage, Inc., Minneapolis, MN 55403.
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Naditch
D000555:Ambulatory Care Information Systems; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods; D003658:Decision Making, Computer-Assisted; D004059:Diffusion of Innovation; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000592:standards; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D014481:United States