Outcomes measurement: application of performance standards and practice guidelines in managed behavioral healthcare

Managed behavioral health care organizations (MBHOs) have increasing accountability to their customers for measuring and managing the quality of care and service rendered to consumers. Health plans, state and federal agencies, employers, and unions express continued and growing interest in MBHOs, utilizing evidence-based practice guidelines and incorporating performance standards into daily operations. Standards and guidelines are often built into the behavioral health care program design by the customer, established by accrediting organizations, developed and disseminated by research and academic institutions, or promoted by professional associations.