RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Core and comprehensive health care services: 1. Introduction to the Canadian Medical Association's decision-making framework
JF Canadian Medical Association Journal
JO CMAJ
FD Canadian Medical Association
SP 1063
OP 1066
VO 152
IS 7
A1 Wilson, R.
A1 Rowan, M. S.
A1 Henderson, J.
YR 1995
UL http://www.cmaj.ca/content/152/7/1063.abstract
AB The CMA's decision-making framework on core (i.e., publicly funded) and comprehensive health care services emphasizes flexibility and recognizes three levels at which decisions can be made: between patients and physicians (micro), in the community or by society (meso) and by governments (macro). Three major content dimensions are considered quality of care (e.g., effectiveness, appropriateness and efficiency of health care services), ethics (e.g., decisions that reflect fairness and acceptability to patients and physicians) and economics (e.g., measurement of service costs against economic benefits in a time of severe economic restraint). There are challenges in applying the framework; however, by providing decision-makers with the knowledge and tools needed to assist in the process, it is hoped that the first and foremost concern will continue to be the quality of patient care so highly valued by Canadians.