Managing and redesigning the continuum of care: the value chain model.

Systems of care have to be managed, measured, and continuously improved. In the current health care environment, the integration of clinical medicine, systems thinking, and quality management disciplines provides needed tools and skills and identifies key leverage points and learning opportunities to improve the quality of services delivered. This article presents the value chain model and plan, designed to assist managers, physicians, and organizations in managing and redesigning the continuum of care.