The authors examine the ability of SCAMPs to reduce clinical variation and improve quality without the drawbacks of clinical practice guidelines, such as physicians’ perceived loss of autonomy and the limitations of clinical studies.
In contrast to clinical practice guidelines, which focus on best practice, SCAMPs focus on sound practice — “a synthesis of current medical knowledge and best clinical judgment that embraces improvement,” according to the study. SCAMPs establish a standard practice for patient populations based on clinical data from electronic health records or physicians’ paper forms, but allow for divergence to meet individual patients’ needs. This model of practice standardization has been shown to be successful in reducing variation, optimizing resource use and improving patient care, according to the study.
The authors offer four policy implications of SCAMPs:
1. SCAMPs support the learning process necessary for patient care and payment reform success.
2. SCAMPs can ensure appropriate resource use.
3. SCAMPs can complement comparative effectiveness research.
4. SCAMPs can generate cost savings.
More Articles on Practice Variation:
Study: Scorecard Improves Adherence to Practice Guidelines
Boston Children’s Strategy to Reduce Clinical Variation Cuts Costs by 20%
Driving Unwarranted Clinical Variation Out of a Hospital: Key Strategies
