Systematic review: the evidence that publishing patient care performance data improves quality of care

publicly reported performance data on quality of care, but many new studies have become available in the 7 years since the last systematic review. Purpose: To synthesize the evidence for using publicly reported performance data to improve quality. Data Sources: Web of Science, MEDLINE, EconLit, and Wilson Business Periodicals (1999–2006) and independent review of arti-cles (1986–1999) identified in a previous systematic review. Only sources published in English were included. Study Selection: Peer-reviewed articles assessing the effects of public release of performance data on selection of providers, quality improvement activity, clinical outcomes (effectiveness, patient safety, and patient-centeredness), and unintended consequences. Data Extraction: Data on study participants, reporting system or level, study design, selection of providers, quality improvement