Released in November, 2000, this 51-page report "set out to identify plan-level practices that contribute to a positive experience for plan members." Using data from the Medicare Managed Care Consumer Assessment of Health Plans Survey, the study examines nine plans with "different patterns of performance operating in five geographic markets." Not surprisingly, the study found that patients rated those managed care programs most successful that delivered needed care quickly, that had doctors and staff who communicated well, and that had a consistent, well-developed approach to customer service. The report also makes recommendations as to how managed care companies might improve in these areas. The report is published by the Commonwealth Fund, "which supports independent research on health and social issues and makes grants to improve health care practice and policy."
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