Structured care methodologies: tools for standardization and outcomes measurement.

In today's healthcare environment, institutions are striving to streamline processes, reduce costs of healthcare, and establish best practice patterns while maintaining and improving the quality of care provided. Various healthcare delivery models are in use including case management and outcomes management. Various tools or structured-care methodologies (SCMs) are incorporated into these different models to support cost reduction and streamline processes while enhancing quality of care. This article discusses the tools frequently used, such as critical pathways, algorithms, and guidelines, as well as how these tools can be used in combination to support each other. This article also addresses the benefits of SCMs, how these tools are developed, and how the data obtained can be used in quality enhancement programs.