Following is a Discussion Paper that is part of a series of scientific papers funded by AHCPR to support the performance measurement efforts of the Foundation for Accountability (FACCT). The authors of these papers reviewed the science base and provided recommendations on measures. FACCT had identified the topics covered in this series—population-level measurement areas such as satisfaction and a number of clinical conditions—as first priorities. A print copy of the full text of this discussion paper is available free of charge from the AHCPR Publications Clearinghouse. Call toll free 800-358-9295 and order AHCPR Pub. No. 96-N024 (August 1996).
This Discussion Paper on low back pain first discusses difficulties in the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain. A recommendation is made for identifying the target population (patients with low back pain). Next, the most commonly used quality measures are reviewed and a recommended evaluation approach is outlined.
Strategies are given for evaluating patient outcomes in terms of:
Strategies for evaluating the use of health care resources for low back symptoms are also given. Prognostic factors and risk adjusters are discussed.
This Discussion Paper was written by Dan Cherkin, Ph.D., of the Center for Health Studies, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound.
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