Abstract
According to some authors, HMOs are successful because of their prepaid financing method whereas others ascribe their success to the organizational structure or culture. Most likely it is a combination of these factors. A straightforward adoption of the American system in the European context is not advised. The work-related health insurance system in the USA poses fewer selection problems and creates a greater mobility of the insured which promotes competition. Similarly the American system does not have a sharp distinction between first and second line care and there is a very wide variety in HMO types; both hospitals and health centers can form the basis of an HMO for example.The success of an integrated and coordinated service under the auspices of one organization argues for further cooperation between first and second line care, which contrasts with the current trend of divergence. The increase in internal consultation, formal discussion and continuing training within the structure of a multi-specialist group practice can result in quality improvements and a more efficient use of health care resources.
Translated title of the contribution | Health Maintenance Organizations: Quality of integral care |
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Original language | Dutch |
Pages (from-to) | 450-454 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Nederlands Tijdschrift voor Geneeskunde |
Volume | 131 |
Issue number | 11 |
Publication status | Published - 18 Mar 1987 |