title: The change process and a clinical evaluation unit at University of Massachusetts Medical Center.
abstract: In the late 1980s, the University of Massachusetts (UMass) began its evolution toward the creation of a clinical evaluation unit (CEU). This article presents an overview of the history leading up to the formation of our clinical evaluation program and some of the projects developed to measure and improve clinical outcomes and reduce costs. Our experience in establishing the UMass CEU reflects an attempt to change clinical practice through effecting organizational change.
authors.affiliation: University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester, USA.
authors.forename: S L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Strongwater
mesh_terms: D019090:Case Management; D016208:Databases, Factual; D005246:Feedback; D006302:Health Services Research; D006745:Hospital Bed Capacity, 300 to 499; D006785:Hospitals, University / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D007902:Length of Stay; D008332:Management Quality Circles; D008404:Massachusetts; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D015397:Program Evaluation; D017749:Total Quality Management / Q000458:organization & administration*; D014600:Utilization Review