1996 OPEN FORUM Abstracts
Five Things I Learned This Year About Diagnostic in the Managed Care Environment
Susan Blonshine, BS, RRT, RPFT Sunday, November 3, 1996
The changing healthcare environment is rapidly moving to managed care and capitation models. Diagnostics will come under increased scrutiny in relationship to costs and improved outcomes. With these changes, the door of opportunity will open, as well as possible associated pitfalls. These opportunities may include new and expanded roles. Careful attention to these five areas may hasten your adaptation to the mandate for "value" in managed care.
1. Understanding utilization management methods adopted by physicians and healthcare systems in response to capitation. The RCP must be knowledgeable about all types of reimbursement strategies.
2. The role of diagnostics in prevention, wellness, and disease management.
3. Integration of information systems as we move away from the centralized laboratory model.
4. The effect of laboratory tests on diagnosis and improved outcomes.
5. The critical need for visibility throughout the continuum of care.
Care, foresight, and professionalism will result in a successful realignment in today's healthcare environment. We must add value and medical relevance with diagnostic testing to maintain our roles.