Managed care is here to stay: implications for obstetrics and gynecology practice

This article provides an overview of types and trends in managed care, as well as insights into how obstetrician/gynecologists can work with managed care plans to improve process and outcomes for patients.

Although studies of managed care between 1990 and 2005 generally did not show clear positive impact on cost or outcomes of care for women, more recent literature indicates the emergence of new models of care with greater success. Promising practices often focus on quality assurance and improvement.

Managed care is the predominant form of healthcare delivery in the United States, including millions of women with public or private health coverage.