Open AccessQuality of life and policy analysis in arthritis
Author(s) -
Kaplan Robert M.,
Coons Stephen Joel,
Anderson John P.
Publication year - 1992
Publication title -
arthritis & rheumatism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1529-0131
pISSN - 0004-3591
DOI - 10.1002/art.1790050310
Subject(s) - medicine , conceptualization , outcome (game theory) , quality of life (healthcare) , public health , actuarial science , disease , health policy , health care , population , public policy , intensive care medicine , gerontology , environmental health , nursing , economic growth , economics , mathematical economics , artificial intelligence , computer science , pathology
Problems in the American health care system have stimulated interest in cost‐effectiveness methodologies. However, there is little consensus on how to define a common unit of health outcome. Many measures used in policy studies consider only mortality and do not fully capture the significant impact of disease‐related dysfunction. The impact of conditions, such as osteoarthritis, that have little impact on mortality rates but substantial impact on functioning and well‐being may be underestimated in these analyses. In this article, we propose a measurement and policy model that is based on a theoretical conceptualization of health outcome. The model considers the impact of disease and its treatment in terms of both morbidity and mortality. The value of the model for clinical trials, population assessments, and policy analysis is reviewed. A public policy application of the model in Oregon is briefly described.