Resource Allocation Flashcards
What is ‘explicit rationing’?
The use of institutional procedures for the systematic allocation of resources within the health care system - based on defined rules of entitlement.
What are the 5 D’s of rationing in the NHS?
Deterrent - demands for healthcare are obstructed
Delay - eg waiting lists
Deflection - Gp’s act as gatekeepers to secondary care
Dilution - eg cheaper off-patent drugs
Denial - some things are denied from patients
Give three advantages of explicit rationing
It’s transparent and accountable
It gives more opportunity for debate
Allows use of evidence based practice
Give three disadvantages of explicit rationing
Very complex
Can create hostility between patients and doctors
Threats the clinical freedom of the doctor
What is implicit rationing?
The allocation of resources through individual clinical decisions without criteria for those decisions being explicit
How are tariffs assigned?
When a hospital treats a patient, the diagnosis and treatment are recorded. This information determines which healthcare resource group the patient is assigned to and which tariff is paid.
