Background information
In an effort to focus on quality, a political decision was taken in 2012 to introduce a trial of quality-based financing (KBF) in specialized health care in Norway. The bill states that a system of quality-based financing will be introduced permanently only after a comprehensive evaluation is carried out by the Directorate of Health, the Norwegian equivalent of the National Board of Health and Welfare.
Challenge
Sirona was asked to evaluate the impact of the CBF system on specialized care, i.e. its impact on overall quality and patient safety. The results of the evaluation were to inform decision-making on the possible permanent introduction of CBF.
Implementation
Sirona conducted a comprehensive and thorough analysis of the impact of the introduction of CBF at the regional level, based on in-depth interviews with representatives at the regional level and a survey of people at both regional and operational level. In addition, studies of available research and literature were carried out, as well as a quantitative analysis to determine whether more quality indicators have been achieved since the introduction of CBF. Regular meetings were held with the Directorate of Health during the project period.
Outcome
The work resulted in a comprehensive report answering general questions and identifying concrete areas for improvement. Sirona's overall assessment was that the CBF financing model is an important step in the right direction to focus on quality and value creation in the health sector. Our recommendation was that the system should be further developed. The CBF had had a positive impact on quality work in the regions. The CBF was well designed, but to increase its impact and create synergies with other initiatives, Sirona made recommendations in a number of development areas.
