Population-based research data as a means to address health outcomes

Abstract

Health care restructuring efforts have been influenced by changes in public policy, payment mechanisms, and societal values. In today's environment, leading issues focus on quality and cost-effective care. Health care systems are moving from a concentration on structures and processes of care to an expanded view that encompasses the exploration, documentation, and improvement of patient outcomes. This article presents an overview of the domains of health outcomes, widely used surveys in the measurement of outcomes, methodological issues related to interpreting outcome measures, and trends for clinical practice and future research.