Question

With respect to Quality, isn't that an expectation like buying a car, the expectation is that it runs and runs safely? We keep looking at Quality but my thoughts are that it is an expectation, now how do you monitor and ensure no underutilization or overutilization of services?

Answer 1

There is no specific measure to monitor the overutilization or underutilization of health care services. This both can exist side by side, but balancing both of them and achieving optimum health care in order to promote the wellbeing of an individual. Overutilization of services can be monitored through the number of inappropriate services provided to the patients which harm them either physically or psychologically. Overutilization of services is widely seen in high-income countries. It wastes the health resources and cost of the nation. Underuse is the failure to provide affordable care to the individual at the right time. It can be determined through lack of access to care, lack of resources, shortage of health professionals etc. Underutilization is a global problem and it can be overcome through effective measures. Structuring of health care services, proper distribution of health care resources, appropriate cost helps to maintain the quality of health services.