Performance measurement for health system improvement: experiences, challenges and prospects

This summary makes the case for performance measurement as key tool for policy-makers endeavouring to improve health systems in the European Region. It highlights the various elements required of a comprehensive health system performance measurement framework; pinpoints how performance measurement can be used in practice; and stresses the role of government stewardship in securing improved performance. It reviews existing evidence and provides examples of the empirical application of performance measures, demonstrating that if governments invest in health they can expect those resources to be used well.