Smart healthcare decisions use information about quality of services provided…
Because our bodies are unique and respond differently to healthcare, it has been difficult for the industry to determine what good measures quality really are. Fortunately, there is a government agency trying to evaluate and establish the types of things you should consider when choosing plans, doctors, hospitals, long term care, and specific treatments. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Its mission is to improve the quality, safety, and effectiveness of healthcare for all Americans. Visit the AHRQ website to learn more.
Another reputable source of healthcare quality data can be found on the website for hospital quality ratings by The Leapfrog Group. While you may not find exact measures for the procedure you are planning, it is important to note whether a hospital participates as it implies a focus on quality. Another important measure is infection rates. Most Americans don’t think of infections as killers because antibiotics have been so effective in the past but new superbugs make hospital infection rates a major concern for anyone in the hospital.
Many other organizations are beginning to try to report quality information of different types including ConsumerReports and Angie’s List. The jury is still out on how trustworthy this data is in terms of quality.
You Need More Than Your Friend’s Recommendation to get Quality Healthcare
Let me leave you with one last thought about healthcare quality. Having great office staff, good appointment availability, and a doctor that you like are all important but they aren’t necessarily good indicators of the quality of care you’ll get. It is also important to know how effective the services being provided are… and the resources provided above are a good start.
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