The state of outcome research: are we on target?

Article Abstract:

The idea of cost-effectiveness effectiveness is a critical issue facing medicine today. To determine the most effective care for patients, some researchers use randomized control trials which take long periods of time to complete and require many resources. To perform these trials for every test, procedure or medication would be difficult and expensive. It is also difficult to apply these universal results to individuals falling into a variety of specialized subgroups or having multiple medical problems. The results of a recent study comparing transurethral resection versus open surgery for the treatment of benign prostate tumors were not convincing because of the researchers' poor identification of factors which increase risk and their influence upon outcome or choice of treatment. It is suggested that carefully planned and designed studies will be more useful in improving the quality of medical care.

Methods, Evaluation, Longitudinal method, Medical research, Longitudinal studies, editorial

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Should we accept mediocrity?

Article Abstract:

Increasing emphasis on cost-containment in the delivery of health care is driving the profession of medicine increasingly toward mediocrity. Managed care has led to more patients being treated by fewer nurses, or by unlicensed assistants, and to a lower quality of care. Important medical information often does not reach the patient's chart, supplies are not available, lab tests are delayed and results are not reported. Representatives of insurance companies are making important health care decisions, sometimes with no obvious application of common sense.

Health aspects, Physicians, Medical professions, Beliefs, opinions and attitudes

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Managed care in transition

Article Abstract:

Employers, doctors, and federal and state governments are attempting to create a managed care industry that focuses on quality of care rather than cost-cutting. This could help the industry overcome its tarnished image in the eyes of doctors and patients.

History

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