The future of casemix in emergency medicine and ambulatory care

The selection of appropriate non-inpatient casemix classification systems is pivotal to the overall success of casemix in Australia. Before implementation, an extensive review and evaluation of issues relating to non-inpatient casemix must be undertaken in conjunction with inpatient casemix to avoid adverse economic and clinical outcomes. Here, we review the background to and current status of non-inpatient casemix classification systems. The current Commonwealth/State research agenda is defined and possible options for both classification and funding of non-inpatient services are described.