Rationing through waiting lists: measuring improvement and possible implications

Abstract

This paper analyzes the main policy initiatives for improving waiting lists in health care. The authors begin by describing strategies to reduce either waiting time or length of the list. They distinguish between demand-side and supply-side strategies. They proceed to discuss policies for improving the "quality" of waiting time. For each policy, they present both the expected effect and the indirect effects that can reduce its effectiveness for improving waiting list conditions.

Waiting Lists; Health Policy; Health Management