This editorial states that studies have shown that in general, patients rank quality information far behind convenience, coverage, access, and cost in choosing health plans . Also, consumers value information on health choices from friends, family and personal physicians much more than information from government sources. Katz claims that health care researchers can improve the evidence base for guidelines prior to dissemination and increase understanding of organizational variables and social influence strategies that promote successful implementation. Critical Pathways or Care Maps attempt to plot out the day to day process of healthcare delivery for a standard patient admitted with a specific diagnosis. Predominantly sponsored by nursing as an adjunct to the nursing care plan and physicians to foster timely and appropriate utilization and reduce variations in care.
Major advantage is to present an organized structure and process for healthcare delivery.
Suggestions might be made as to when to transfer a patient to a lower level of care, or the best timing for repeat testing or diagnostics. A disadvantage of Critical pathways or care maps is that when a patient falls out of the standard pathway, variances should be documented accordingly.