A comprehensive assessment of Canadian health program guidelines: international health system implications

A comprehensive assessment of the Health Program Guidelines (HPG) in Canada was undertaken between January to September 1992. This review examined the strategic effectiveness and operational efficiency of the guidelines under the auspices of a Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Institutional and Medical Services (ACIMS). To assess the perceived needs for the guidelines, over 185 structured mail questionnaires were sent to a sample of health care agencies, institutions and organizations across Canada. A key informant approach was also used to assess the perceived effectiveness and efficiency of the guidelines. Based on the results of the questionnaires the findings and recommendations were made, that are relevant to the international health system community.