Performance measures should be shielded from the threat of industry influence

摘要

Using evidence based performance measures to guide patient treatment is advocated to improve outcomes and decrease costs. The NHS's Quality and Outcome Framework outlines performance measures for GPs in the UK. The US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) uses performance measures to regulate US healthcare by withholding reimbursement and accreditation from non-compliant providers. With such compelling incentives, the performance measures essentially become healthcare mandates. The National Quality Forum evaluates and endorses performance measures for CMS, ensuring that they are supported by strong, unbiased, scientific evidence.