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The debate over Diagnosis Related Groups

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Abstract

With the advent of the Prospective Payment System (PPS) using Diagnosis Related Groups (DRGs) as a classification method, the pros and cons of that mechanism have been sharply debated. Grouping the comments into categories related to administration/management, DRG system and quality of care, a review of relevant literature highlights the pertinent attitudes and views of professionals and organizations. Points constantly argued include data utilization, meaningful medical classifications, resource use, gaming, profit centers, patient homogenieity, severity of illness, length of stay, technology limitations and the erosion of standards.

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Allen D. Spiegel, M.P.H., Ph.D. and Florence Kavaler, M.D., M.P.H. are Professors of Preventive Medicine & Community Health at Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Avenue, Box #43, Brooklyn, New York 11203

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Spiegel, A.D., Kavaler, F. The debate over Diagnosis Related Groups. J Community Health 10, 81–92 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01326513

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