Product specification: the fifth discipline of health care

In any given year, less than 50 percent of the total eligible population takes advantage of illness benefits. This certainly raises the issue of undercare. By specifying the periodic examination schedule for screening and preventive care, the product specification approach to quality medicine can preclude underservice of the beneficiaries. In addition, protocols and practice guidelines for care should lead to increased quality of care and better treatment outcomes. Elimination of the need for inspection will have a significant effect on the excessive administrative costs in the system, and the electronic medical record will eliminate duplication, provide for electronic fund transfer, and minimize administrative costs. Improved quality and lower costs will probably result from integrating the fifth discipline of product specification into health management.