Applications of epidemiology in the operation and marketing of managed care plans.
This article discusses the background and use of epidemiology by managed care plans. The relevance of the outcomes-oriented approach used in epidemiology is explained with regard to operational and marketing decisions. Examples from the research literature are provided that illustrate the types of decisions that can benefit from epidemiologic input. Finally, the implications for health services administration training are discussed.
Department of Hospital and Health Administration, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH 45207.
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MacDowell
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Lutz
D003659:Decision Making, Organizational; D004813:Epidemiology / Q000639:trends*; D006761:Hospitals / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D008329:Managed Care Programs / Q000458:organization & administration*; D008389:Marketing of Health Services; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010820:Physicians / Q000592:standards; D015397:Program Evaluation / Q000379:methods; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology