Statistics in Healthcare Administration

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In the health care industry, gathering information in order to find the best diagnosis route or even determine patient satisfaction is necessary. This is complete by conducting a survey and collecting data. When the information is complete, we then have statistical information used to make administrative decision within the healthcare field. The collection of meaningful statistics is an important function of any hospital or clinic.

Quantitative research guides health care decision makers with statistics--numerical data collected from measurements or observation that describe the characteristics of specific population samples. Descriptive statistics summarize the utility, efficacy and costs of medical goods and services. Increasingly, health care organizations employ statistical analysis to measure their performance outcomes. Hospitals and other large provider service organizations implement data-driven, continuous quality improvement programs to maximize efficiency.” (Castro, 2012). Examples of quantitative research include; (Scerbo,2013)

• Starts with a hypothesis, concept or theory, deductive strategy.

• Often uses random sampling to select a large statistically representative sample from which generalizations can be drawn.

• Uses experimental designs and formal measurement instruments to collect data.

• Uses statistical methods to analyze data once all data collected

• Represents findings with numbers and generalizes those findings from the sample to defined populations

Researchers work hard to eliminate bias from outcomes through approaches that diminish subjectivity and modification from unknown sources. Randomization, use of well-matched controls, and blinding of analysts and researchers are some ways to try to a...

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... understand where and how each statistic is coming from. Health records are the primary source of data used in compiling health care statistics. The health record staff, therefore, may be responsible for .When a person gains this knowledge this allows for an Administrator are fully be able to make the proper changes in the healthcare organization that will end with the best effective and successful solution.

Reference

Castor, R. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.livestrong.com/article/186334-why-are-statistics-important-in-the-health-care-field/

Serb, M. (2013). Retrieved from http://ssih.org/quantitative-vs.-qualitative-research

Thrasher, E. H., & Revels, M. A. (2012). The Role of Information Technology as a Complementary Resource in Healthcare Integrated Delivery Systems. Hospital Topics, 90(2), 23-32. doi:10.1080/00185868.2012.679908

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