Reviewing the process and outcome of hospital care in Europe: the tracer method.

A method is described for reviewing and comparing the process and outcome of hospital care, which involves collecting data on a consecutive series of patients with the same medical condition. Criteria for choice of tracer condition are given, and illuminated with reference to fractured neck of femur. The method has been developed in the context of the European Collaborative Health Services Studies, and participants from five countries have been involved. It is concluded that the method is practicable and succeeds in its objectives. The role of health care managers is one of stimulus and support to doctors and nurses who might be interested in carrying out such studies, and a set of stages from the initial idea for a study, through study design and data collection to conclusions for practical change, is described.