The Community Tracking Study analyses of market change: introduction

Abstract

Objective: To introduce two articles and describe methods that are common to them.

Data sources/study setting: Interviews conducted in person in 1996/1997 with leaders of organizations involved in the financing and delivery of healthcare.

Study design: As part of the Community Tracking Study, 12 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) were selected randomly from MSAs with populations over 200,000. Researchers made baseline site visits to these communities and conducted from 36 to 60 interviews, depending on the size of the site. The communities were compared to identify common patterns of change and differences across communities.

Data collection/extraction methods: Researchers conducted interviews with a broad cross-section of leaders in each community. Interview modules were designed to obtain multiple perspectives on a question.

Principal findings and conclusions: Fundamental changes in the way care is actually delivered is likely to lag behind the extensive changes in organizational relationships that are taking place.