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[Evaluation of disease management programs--current deficits, demands and methods]
Ferdinand M Gerlach1, Martin Beyer, Joachim Szecsenyi
1Institut für Allgemeinmedizin, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel. gerlach@allgemeinmedizin.uni-kiel.de
Zeitschrift Fur Arztliche Fortbildung Und Qualitatssicherung
|November 13, 2003
Summary
Evaluating disease management programs is crucial. This study proposes a four-step model for effective program evaluation, addressing current methodological challenges in healthcare.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Program Evaluation
- Chronic Disease Management
Context:
- German healthcare policy mandates program evaluation under the Fifth Book of Social Code.
- Ambiguity exists regarding effective evaluation strategies for disease management programs.
- Deficits in evaluating existing programs for chronically ill patients are highlighted, using the North-Rhine diabetes contract as a case study.
Purpose:
- To address the ambiguity in defining suitable evaluation strategies for disease management programs.
- To discuss reasonable demands for evaluating program effectiveness and benefits, drawing on international experience.
- To propose a methodological solution for the dilemma of varying study designs in program evaluation.
Summary:
- The study identifies current deficits in evaluating disease management programs for chronically ill patients.
- It discusses international best practices and proposes a four-step model for program evaluation.
- This model aims to overcome methodological challenges and allow for adequate evaluation of complex interventions.
Impact:
- Provides a structured approach to evaluating complex healthcare interventions.
- Aims to improve the quality and reliability of disease management program assessments.
- Contributes to evidence-based decision-making in healthcare policy and practice.