Prospective payment assessment commission. A commissioner's perspective.

The function and priorities of the Prospective Payment Assessment Commission (ProPAC) are discussed. The ProPAC's priorities include (1) safeguarding the quality of care; (2) encouraging hospital productivity and long-term cost-effectiveness; (3) facilitating innovation and appropriate technological change; (4) maintaining stability for providers, consumers, and other payers; and (5) making decisions based on reliable, timely data and information.