Using data envelopment analysis to analyse the efficiency of primary care units

Deidda, M. , Lupiáñez-Villanueva, F., Codagnone, C. and Maghiros, I. (2014) Using data envelopment analysis to analyse the efficiency of primary care units. Journal of Medical Systems, 38(10), 122. (doi: 10.1007/s10916-014-0122-1) (PMID:25123457)

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Abstract

In this paper we analyse the efficiency of primary care centres (PCCs) adopting Information and Communication Technology (ICT) devices, using a new database on primary care centres in the Basque Region in Spain. Using a four-stage Data Envelopment Analysis methodology, we are able to explicitly take into account the role of ICT in affecting the efficiency of primary care centres. We understand that this is the first time that ICT enters into the determination of efficiency of the health sector. The role of exogenous factors is explicitly considered in this analysis and shows that including these variables is not neutral to the efficiency evaluation, but leads to an efficiency indicator that only encompasses the effect of managerial skills. The paper provides some useful policy implications regarding the role of ICT in improving the efficiency of primary care units.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Deidda, Dr Manuela
Authors: Deidda, M., Lupiáñez-Villanueva, F., Codagnone, C., and Maghiros, I.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Health Economics and Health Technology Assessment
Journal Name:Journal of Medical Systems
Publisher:Springer
ISSN:0148-5598
ISSN (Online):1573-689X
Published Online:16 August 2014

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