DRG, BSC and EBM: time to work with one another

Introduction There has been much evidence provided on the appropriateness of Diagnosis Related Groups (DRGs) as a useful tool for funding, and/or a reimbursement mechanism. DRGs have also proven valuable for management and review of utilization, as well as in conducting research into health systems. Many people believe that DRG–based funding (and performance) holds hospitals accountable for costs, but its impact on quality of care and health outcomes is unclear. This, in turn, undermines its utilization either for funding or management purposes. If classification of similar patients into the classes of DRGs paves the way toward achieving the objectives of evidence-based practice in medicine and the health system, then this will have a significant effect on the utilization of DRGs around the globe.