Wake-Dyster W: Evidence-based priority setting

This paper describes evidence-based priority setting and resource allocation undertaken by a Division of the Women’s & Children’s Hospital, Adelaide during 1998-1999. We describe the methods used to combine program budgeting marginal analysis (PBMA), evidence based and “community values ” approaches into one decision-making framework. Previous organisational changes involving the formation of multidisciplinary team and program management were pivotal in setting a framework to successfully complete the priority setting process. Background The Allied Health Division (AHD) is one of eight clinical divisions at the Women’s & Children’s Hospital. The AHD was formed in 1995 following the amalgamation of the Adelaide Children’s and Queen Victoria Hospitals. The AHD at that time comprised six profession-based departments: Orthotics, Occupationa