E A McGlynn1, N Halfon. 1. Center for Research on Quality in Health Care, RAND, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To provide a framework for a research agenda-setting conference on quality of care for children. DATA SOURCES/STUDY SETTING: Literature review. CONCLUSIONS: Research on quality of care for children has lagged behind its counterpart for adults. Defining key issues and questions in seven topic areas-the health of children; the efficacy and effectiveness of health services for children; assessing quality of care; improving quality of care within health services delivery systems; assessing and improving quality at the community level; getting financial incentives right; and disseminating information about the results of research investigations-will facilitate the development of an effective research strategy. Ultimately, enhanced information in these areas will lead to improvements in the processes and outcomes of care for children.
OBJECTIVE: To provide a framework for a research agenda-setting conference on quality of care for children. DATA SOURCES/STUDY SETTING: Literature review. CONCLUSIONS: Research on quality of care for children has lagged behind its counterpart for adults. Defining key issues and questions in seven topic areas-the health of children; the efficacy and effectiveness of health services for children; assessing quality of care; improving quality of care within health services delivery systems; assessing and improving quality at the community level; getting financial incentives right; and disseminating information about the results of research investigations-will facilitate the development of an effective research strategy. Ultimately, enhanced information in these areas will lead to improvements in the processes and outcomes of care for children.