Quality of health care in the US managed care system

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the issue of quality of care in the US managed care system and to compare state‐level policies and programs. Specifically, it aims to describe five states which are making the most quality of care improvements.Design/methodology/approachThis study examines the literature to identify states' care quality rankings. Additionally, five state case studies are presented to illustrate various programs approach to quality.FindingsThe paper finds that some states are better than others in their strategies to enhance quality of care. California, Florida, Maryland, Minnesota and Rhode Island are considered among the best. Thus, their programs are described.Research limitations/implicationsFrom a research perspective the study brings a renewed focus on various methods in which states invest to improve residents' quality of care.Practical implicationsFrom a practical standpoint, since quality of care is an important topic and interesting to all stakeholders in health care – policymakers, consumers, providers, and payers – readers can use the study's results to compare states' strategies and develop new ways to increase quality.Originality/valueThis study's value lies in the way it helps states to compare their performance over time and against other states as they make improvements to enhance quality.