An overview of integrated managed care

Created as a response to the need for more efficient healthcare delivery, managed care continues to be a major influence on the critical decisions made by healthcare providers in the United States. Development of managed care strategies requires an analytical breakdown of costs (inputs) and outcomes of all aspects of patient care. Care thus rationalized is intended to result in greater patient satisfaction and more economic efficiency. Ultimately, 2 important questions about performance need to be addressed by managed care providers: "Are we doing the right we doing the right thing?" and "Are thing well?"