Cost optimization of the outpatient management of depression
Menke, R.; Schneider, F.; Härter, M.; Salize, H.J.; Berger, M.; Gaebel, W.
Zeitschrift für Arztliche Fortbildung und Qualitatssicherung 97(Suppl 4): 74-79
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 1431-7621 PMID: 14710671 Document Number: 557787
Against the background of the important role of depressive disorders in health policy, outpatient management still seems to have some optimisation potential. In particular, improvement can be expected from a stricter adherence to diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines. The article discusses potential elements of a quality-orientated, guideline-based reimbursement system as a component of a comprehensive strategy for implementing available guidelines. This includes focussing on target areas typical of depression as well as improving outcome by controlling process elements during treatment.