Benchmarking: finding ways to improve.

BACKGROUND

This article provides health care organizations with a benchmarking methodology to use in comparing practices and processes to identify and actualize opportunities for improvement. The 15-step model can be used to guide internal and external benchmarking activities in a variety of health care settings.

EXAMPLES

Two internal benchmarking case studies are illustrated: (1) one hospital used the Baxter model to evaluate its laparoscopic cholecystectomy services, and (2) another prepared for expansion of cardiac catheterization services.

CONCLUSIONS

Two key factors of a successful benchmarking initiative are highlighted: management commitment and involvement, and the need to understand internal practices and processes before benchmarking.