The Importance of Measuring Quality of Care at the End of Life

SUMMARY

Although designed to respond to acute illness, the current health care system must increasingly provide care for people living longer with chronic diseases. Evaluation of the quality of this care must utilize appropriate measurements, study populations, and outcomes. Current quality measures and major studies of quality of care are highlighted. A framework for measuring quality of care is outlined. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-342-9678. E-mail address: [email protected]]

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Molla S. Donaldson

Molla S. Donaldson, MS, is Adjunct Professor in the Department of Health Care Sciences, George Washington University School of Medicine and Allied Health; Senior Staff Officer at the Institute of Medicine, Washington DC; and Fellow in the Pew Doctoral Program in Health Policy, University of Michigan.