Quality strategy

We cooperate with representatives of the Provinces, the social insurance funds and the Federal Government to develop an Austrian strategy towards which all future quality-enhancing activities in the health care sector should be oriented.

This quality strategy is intended as a guideline for action, which is regularly assessed with regard to validity, applicability and implementation, and adapted according to needs and demands. Goals that have jointly been set and that are unanimously agreed upon will guide decision-makers and providers of health care services. Quality management will be a determining factor in the ongoing process of improving health care provision in Austria.

At present, we are preparing a prioritisation process for deciding which subject in the area of quality should be given priority. In this context, we follow the principles of focusing on patients, patient safety, equality, effectiveness and efficiency. We work in line with epidemiological principles and take into account demographic developments.

Proceeding on a basis of participation and cooperation when defining and implementing quality strategies will help ensure their sustainability. In this way, the health care system may become a learning structure: decisions are made as a result of rational, evidence-based considerations; incentives take precedence over sanctions; and approaches of care service provision across professions and sectors are endorsed. Finally, aiming at the greatest possible transparency will help promote the continuous advancement and quality assurance in Austria’s health care sector.

 Quality strategy (PDF File, 114 KB)