Make the Case for Consumer Reporting

Organizations that produce reports on the quality of health care often face a negative reaction from people who don’t understand the purpose of the reports or are wary of sharing this kind of information with consumers. The level of resistance has declined somewhat since the early days of public reporting in the mid-1990’s as the reports have become more common and more technically sophisticated. But making a strong case for this kind of reporting remains a challenge.

This section can help you explain the purpose of consumer reporting; anticipate the questions and concerns you may hear from providers, health plans, board members, and even consumers; and identify arguments that can help you obtain the support you need for reporting.

• The Problems With Health Care Quality
• Public Information as Part of a Multipronged Strategy
• Arguments Against Consumer Reporting
• Arguments in Support of Consumer Reporting