Resource Allocation

Question 1

Why set priorities for resources?

Answer 1

Demand outstrips supply – difficult decisions have to be made

Question 2

What drives the rise in demand for healthcare?

Answer 2

Over 75s rising, 60% over 65 have long-term health conditions, increased incidence/prevalence of cancer

Question 3

What are the 2 forms rationing?

Answer 3

Explicit, implicit

Question 4

What is implicit rationing?

Answer 4

Allocation of resources through individual clinical decisions without the criteria for those decisions being explicit – can lead to inequalities/discrimination

Question 5

What is explicit rationing?

Answer 5

Use of institutional procedures for the systematic allocation of resources within health care system

Question 6

What are the dis/advantages of explicit rationing?

Answer 6

A = Transparent, accountable, opportunity for debate, evidence based.

D = very complex, pt/professional hostility, impact on clinical freedom, some evidence of pt distress