Survey of Decision Makers on Health Priority Setting
Author Information
Author(s): Teng Flora, Mitton Craig, MacKenzie Jennifer
Primary Institution: Provincial Health Services Authority of B.C.
Hypothesis
What are the current practices and perceptions of decision makers regarding priority setting in health services?
Conclusion
The study identified key factors influencing priority setting in a provincial health authority and suggested improvements for a more explicit process.
Supporting Evidence
- Decision makers expressed a desire for more explicit, evidence-based approaches to priority setting.
- The current priority setting process is largely ad hoc and based on historical allocations.
- Participants identified strengths such as a strong research base and the Strategic Plan.
- Barriers include a lack of formal training in priority setting and the challenge of serving diverse patient groups.
Takeaway
This study asked important health decision makers how they decide what services to fund, and they want a clearer and fairer way to make those choices.
Methodology
Qualitative study using in-depth, face-to-face interviews with key decision makers.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the subjective nature of qualitative interviews.
Limitations
The study reflects decision maker perceptions before engaging in an explicit priority setting process.
Participant Demographics
Key decision makers from the Provincial Health Services Authority and its member agencies.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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