Introduction: A key mandate of Canadian regional health authorities (RHAs) is to set priorities and allocate resources within a limited funding envelope. The aims of this study were to identify, within a Canadian RHA, existing resource management techniques, to elicit ways in which the current process of setting priorities could be improved, and determine if an economic framework used in the UK would have merit in Canada. Methods: Structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 31 of 37 key decision makers in the Calgary Regional Health Authority (CRHA). This sample included all senior executives involved in setting priorities within this $1.1B health region. Descriptive statistics and content analysis were utilized. Results: Overall, key decision makers reported that a clear process of setting priorities within the CRHA does not exist. Allocation of resources occurs on the basis of historical trends or the 'squeaky wheel getting the grease'. Most participants stated that the current process could be improved with a more explicit and rational approach to setting priorities, specifically one which weighs out the costs and benefits of a particular service or program. Respondents indicated that program budgeting and marginal analysis (PBMA), a framework used in British health authorities, would likely be an appropriate tool for the CRHA. Conclusions: Although there may always be a political and historical influence in the process of setting priorities and allocating resources in RHAs, an evidence based approach like PBMA, which explicitly attempts to identify ways of maximizing health benefit within a limited budget, should have merit.
Learning Objectives: Recognize key issues invovled in setting priorities and allocating resources in publicly funded health authorities, and to assess whether an economic approach to needs assessment is an appropriate tool in such organizations
Keywords: Public Health Administration, Rationing
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.