Outcomes research, analysis, and dissemination: the federal government's role

The Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR) is responsible for medical outcomes research, analysis, and dissemination of results. The AHCPR's largest funded studies are the Patient Outcome Research Teams (PORTs). The results of the prostatic disease PORT show wide variations in practice patterns and provide insights into the reasons for and solutions to these variations. Managed care plans are using this information to educate patients and providers about the risks and outcomes associated with various treatment options. Early findings indicate positive results in terms of patient satisfaction and reduced treatment costs.