Overview of tools for outcomes assessment.
Tools for outcomes research can encompass local concepts such as a computerized database of endoscopy reports, or broader concepts such as a national database capturing similar data. Outcomes research may be defined by the investigator, but its results are important to the consumer, be it the patient or the payor. Databases, common to many endoscopy units, become outcomes research tools when the data are scrutinized for outcomes such as quality of life, mortality, and interventions that may improve cost-effective care. Enhanced knowledge of methods to capture these data will benefit all gastrointestinal endoscopists.
Schmitt
C M
CM
Department of Medicine, Office of Research, University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Chattanooga Unit, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37403, USA. cschmitt@mindspring.com
D016099:Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care / Q000592:standards*