Clinical practice evaluation at Providence Health System.

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Clinical Practice Evaluation
• Outcomes Research

Background:

• Providence Health System (PHS) in Portland, Oregon, has a history of evaluating clinical practices.
• Early studies date back to the 1960s.
• The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving.

Purpose of the Study:

• To chronicle the evolution of clinical practice evaluation at PHS.
• To showcase the application of an outcomes research paradigm.
• To demonstrate a systemwide strategy responsive to healthcare market changes.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an outcomes research paradigm over seven years.
• Presented case studies in key medical areas.
• Documented the historical development of evaluation methods at PHS.

Main Results:

• Established the Center for Outcomes Research and Education (CORE).
• Developed a new systemwide strategy for practice evaluation.
• Applied outcomes research to back pain, coronary artery disease, total joint replacement, and cancer treatment.

Conclusions:

• PHS has successfully integrated outcomes research into its practice evaluation.
• The Center for Outcomes Research and Education (CORE) plays a vital role.
• A responsive, systemwide strategy enhances adaptation to market dynamics.