Quality and accountability: Childrens emergency services in a managed care environment

The fast pace of change in the health care system has sparked growing interest among purchasers, consumers, providers, health plans, and others in evaluating and improving the quality of health services. The Emergency Medical Services for Children Program's Managed Care Task Force recommended the development of a white paper to focus on issues related to quality and accountability in children's emergency medical services in a managed care environment. A literature review was conducted, and a panel reviewed and discussed relevant materials. The panelists then developed recommendations as a resource for managed care organizations, providers of care, professional associations, and federal, state, and local policymakers.