Understanding Quality

Quality Indicators 

 “Improving Health Care Quality: A Guide for Patients and Family.” Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
http://www.ahcpr.gov/consumer/qntlite/qntlite.htm 

“In search of quality health care.” Consumer Reports Online
http://www.consumerreports.org/  
(Go to “A to Z Index,” click on “HMO’s Free 10/98”) 

“Health Care, Part 3.” National Public Radio Online Morning Edition (Audio File)
http://search.npr.org/cf/cmn/cmnps05fm.cfm?SegID=46329
Requires Real Player (downloadable from the site). 8 minute segment on making informed decisions about health care with regard to the balance between cost, quality, and choice. 

 “Health Care, Part 4.” National Public Radio Online Morning Edition (Audio File)
http://search.npr.org/cf/cmn/cmnps05fm.cfm?SegID=46384
Requires RealPlayer (downloadable from the site). 8 minute segment on changes in approaches to prevent and manage disease based on scientific evidence from clinical research. 

“Nursing Sensitive Quality Indicators for Acute Care Settings and the ANA’s Safety and Quality Initiative.” American Nurses Association.
http://nursingworld.org/readroom/fssafe99.htm

 

Consumer Rights 

“Making Your Health Benefits Work For You.” Department of Labor.
http://www.dol.gov/dol/pwba/public/pubs/health/interim-pg.html
Information about employer-provided health benefit options and employee protection laws.  

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
http://cms.hhs.gov/hipaa/hipaa1/
Information about health care rights and protections for working Americans and their families.