A quality measurement framework for managed care organizations

This article presents a framework for a quality measurement system and its corresponding principles for quality improvement within a managed care environment. The quality measurement system comprises four modes: quality assessment, comparison, improvement, and system evaluation. If these modes are to be effective, the measurement system must incorporate the following five principles: (a) maintain and continually improve the data systems, (b) develop and utilize sound methodology and valid indicators, (c) build a competent measurement team, (d) develop effective strategies for implementation, and (e) protect member confidentiality. This model is helpful in the ongoing development and testing of new measurement systems.