Quality Assurance: A Comprehensive National Strategy for Health Care is Needed
Abstract
To patients, 'getting better' (that is, the outcome of care) is probably the primary concern. In addition, having access to care that is affordable, conveniently available, and provided in a manner that respects their concerns and preferences is important. The responsiveness of the delivery system may also be important-for example, meeting patients' individual needs for emergency care, coordinating services, and making appropriate referrals. Health care providers may emphasize the decision-making process that underlies diagnosis and treatment, the clinical content of care, and the technical skill with which is rendered. Purchasers may place greater weight on questions of cost-effectiveness, including the need for individual diagnostic and therapeutic services, the appropriateness of the setting in which care is delivered, and the frequency, timing, and duration of services.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 21, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA280785
Entities
People
- Linda Demlo
- Roger Straw
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office