The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #58330

Laurie Fitts, PhD, MPA, Health Administration, Walden University, 301 Bradwyck Drive, Cary, NC 27513, 919-468-9447, lfitts@waldenu.edu

Changes in the US economy have led to changes in individual markets, including health markets. As a result, U.S. health consumers have expressed frustration and dissatisfaction with health maintenance organizations (HMOs) that provide their care. Consumers believe the pressure to compete has forced their physicians to provide unacceptably low levels of quality patient care (Encinosa, 2001). The research presented sought to determine if differences exist in quality of patient care provided by physicians practicing in competitive health care markets. Guided by subsidiary questions and a comprehensive review of primary resource literature and resources, “quality of patient care” was examined from a systemic perspective, considering variation in clinical processes.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to:
• Evaluate the impact of a health care market on patient quality of care.
• Discuss the rationale managed care organizations use to determine competitive and non-competitive markets.
• Analyze the implications for the uses of physician profiling.

Keywords: Managed Care, Quality of Care

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.