Using measurement and feedback to reduce health care costs and modify physician practice patterns

Abstract

Rising health care costs coupled with an inability to determine what constitutes value in the delivery of health care services lead a group of Cincinnati health care purchasers to seek answers and solutions. The formation of a collaborative effort that includes both purchasers and providers is producing profound changes in the Cincinnati health care market. After one year in operation, data show a significant overall decrease in length of stay, a return to single-digit inflation, and intriguing changes in provider practice patterns.