Dig Deeper
You hear the phrase all the time. It is our end goal. Yet, consumers define quality of care in many different ways. Some describe it as “good bedside manner,” others as “a doctor who is very knowledgeable.”
Once consumers understand everything that goes into experiencing high-quality care, it may not take a great leap to realize that quality varies. Once that is established, the next step is to understand that health care quality data can help consumers make decisions about their care.
The New Mexico Coalition for Health Care Quality uses an organizing framework to explain quality of care. The home page opens with: “Quality health care helps you stay healthy, helps you recover faster from an illness or injury, and it’s the kind of care you want for you and your family.”
The Learn, Compare, Act framework is used by the Wisconsin Collaborative for Healthcare Quality. The “Read Our Stories” section of their web site provides information about health care quality to orient them to—and engage them in—reports in the “Compare” section.
What are some ways consumers can help improve health care?
Leadership positions and health care activism are a good start
What role do consumers and patients play in reducing readmissions?
Knowledge and skills can make the difference.
Why worry about hospital readmissions?
They are costly and often avoidable.
How do I get consumer feedback on my website?
There are several steps to take.
What is the Consumer Engagement Leadership Consortium?
An integral part of AF4Q's work.
What role do employers play in reaching consumers?
Communications and incentives are just a small sample.
- Why do consumers need to know how much things cost?
- How do we help employers maintain their interest and energy in our partnership?
- What role do employers play in improving care quality?
- What frameworks can I use to engage and activate consumers?
- What are the benefits of personal health records?
- What is the Consumer Engagement Leadership Consortium?
- Where should I incorporate consumers into my practice or hospital?
- How do you explain the idea of “high-quality health care"?
- How do I clarify my role as a consumer within my organization or Alliance?
- How do I become a better consumer leader?