A System-Linked Research Unit on "Health and Social Service Utilization"

Authors

  • Gina Bohn Browne
  • Carolyn Byrne
  • Jacqueline Roberts
  • Susan Watt
  • Amiram Gafni

Abstract

History The McMaster System-Linked Research Unit on "Health and Social Service Utilization" has been in operation since 1991. It is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health and is in alliance with 16 community health and social service partner agencies. Partner agencies who help shape the relevant research agenda include visiting nurses, family practices, regional departments of social services and public health as well as the District Health and Social Planning Councils from the two regions of Hamilton-Wentworth and Halton, Ontario. Rationale for Unit Emphasis The reasons for the emphasis of this unit on the effectiveness and efficiency of new versus existing models of health and social service are as follows: A major portion of health service is currently consumed by a small proportion of patients, regardless of the country, method of organizing, or financing of that service. Seniors, adults and children with multiple chronic conditions (stresses of illness and/or family and finances, coupled with social disadvantages and unfavourable attitudes) are routinely cited as "expensive" groups.

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Published

1994-04-13

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Section

Articles