Model Public Report Elements: A Sampler
D. Web Page Layout
The design of your Web site's appearance matters. Many report sponsors err on the side of inclusion and the result, unfortunately, can be a visual overload for consumers. To enhance understanding, interest, and visual appeal, the Web site layout should have adequate white space, that is, not too much clutter of text or pictures. A streamlined layout helps to efficiently direct the user's attention to what is important on the page. In addition, the search function should be quick and easy to locate from the landing page. Below are several examples with specific advantages.
The following search page is readily accessible from the landing page. It has plenty of white space, a minimum of text, and a clear sequence of steps leading to an easy-to-find "View Quality Scores" box.
Tool: Partner for Quality Care
Sponsor: Oregon Health Care Quality Corp
URL: http://www.partnerforqualitycare.org/selection.php
The same site maintains a balanced look on its data pages, keeping space between information points. Also, the large, clearly labeled tabs at the top, the same as those on the search page, allow quick navigation to other pages of interest.
Tool: Partner for Quality Care
Sponsor: Oregon Health Care Quality Corp
URL: http://www.partnerforqualitycare.org/selection.php
The site below is an example of providing ease in starting a search and creating a customized report by combining multiple items on a single page.
Tool: VHI Cardiac Care: Compare Hospitals
Sponsor: Virginia Health Information
URL: http://www.vhi.org/cardiac_reports.asp
The icons used on the page below quickly transmit important information about services available, while the overall layout is simple and easy to understand.
Tool: New York State Hospital Profile
Sponsor: New York State Department of Health
URL: http://hospitals.nyhealth.gov/browse_view.php?id=218
The page below is easy to read and uses a presentation that draws the eyes to the ratings.
Tool: Get Better Maine
Sponsor: Maine Health Management Coalition
URL: http://www.mhmc.info/compare/hospitals
References
- Institute of Medicine. Crossing the quality chasm: a new health system for the 21st century. Washington, DC: National Academies Press; 2001.
- Anderson G, Brown A. Appropriateness ratings: overuse, underuse, or misuse? Lancet 2001 Nov 3;358(9292):1475-6.
- Donabedian A. Evaluating the quality of medical care. Milbank Mem Fund Q 1966 Jul;44(3):Suppl:166-206.