Redefining quality

Article Abstract:

Terminology for quality control comes from industry, which has adopted numerous buzzwords and procedures that may not apply to the practice of medicine. Quality management experts say the industrial model emphasizes top-down management of quality control, whereas physicians work as individuals and leaders in total quality management. The quality of health care delivery can be analyzed by examining outcomes and employing statistical information systems. Examples are included of customer-driven and process oriented methods of assessing quality.

Analysis, Quality management, Total quality management

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Illinois doctors organize to protect care; AMA backs it

Article Abstract:

Rockford Clinic was acquired by Rockford Health System in Rockford, IL, in 1994. Physicians became corporate employees rather than practice owners and lost their input into policy matters. Staff reduction increased the time taken to complete paperwork and lab tests. Staffing and budget decisions were based on financial rather than patient care issues. As a result, some clinic physicians are attempting to develop the Rockford Physicians' Council which acts as a collective bargaining unit for input in policy matters.

Hospitals, Health care industry, Rockford, Illinois

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From colleague to competitor

Article Abstract:

Doctors within managed care networks are finding themselves in competition with each other: specialists compete with primary doctors, and young physicians compete with older ones. Physicians need to join groups large enough to make changes in the market place that empower doctors rather than pit them against each other. Information is presented for several types of physicians on how best to market their services.

HEALTH SERVICES, Direct Health and Medical Insurance Carriers, Health Plan Administration, Officials and employees, Managed care plans (Medical care), Health insurance industry

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