The Comprehensive Health Organization--a practical solution for an integrated health care system

This brief report takes a look at the structure and functions of a new type of health care delivery system, the comprehensive health organization (CHO). The development of such a system, however, requires a new mindset or shift of focus: none of the activities of a CHO has been part of the training or experience of providers in the Canadian health care system. The range of services a CHO would offer, whether they would be provided by the CHO or by an outside contractor, the possible risks involved, and who the potential participants would be are also discussed.