An integrated care system for musculoskeletal disorders in a managed care setting.
Practice guidelines, education, consensus building, and extensive communication were the tools used in developing a musculoskeletal care system. Primary care physicians directed patient care using practice guidelines for common musculoskeletal conditions. Patient education and empowerment were emphasized. Specialist consultations were made available by telephone/voicemail to advise primary care physicians regarding treatment plans and the need for specialty referrals. Significant reductions in medical service utilization for this patient population were achieved while high levels of patient satisfaction were maintained. Such integrated systems are likely to work well within other MCOs.
Gatter
R A
RA
Lovelace Health Systems, Albuquerque, NM 87108, USA.
Klein
B J
BJ
D019090:Case Management / Q000592:standards*; D019033:Delivery of Health Care, Integrated / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000592:standards; D004358:Drug Therapy / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D017116:Low Back Pain / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology; D008329:Managed Care Programs / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000592:standards; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D014481:United States