Publishing outcome data: is it an effective approach?

The publication of health outcome data--rather than merely the measurement and collection--is being given increasing consideration. Publication reflects society's increasing emphasis on a general 'right to know', as well as being a means of informing consumer choice. In theory, publication may help to promote public trust, support patient choice, and stimulate action to improve the quality of care whilst controlling costs.

Drawing on a literature review, this paper overviews the strategies employed in the UK and US to publish outcome data. The focus is on outcomes, and certain related process measures, that measure the performance of hospitals or surgeons.

Presenting the limited evidence that exists, we review the potential beneficial and harmful effects of publishing hospital outcome data. We also consider the risks of making incorrect inferences based on these data and the potential for dysfunctional consequences. Recognizing that the public largely mistrusts currently published health outcome data, we offer some recommendations for the future direction of strategies for publication.