Some evidence on the continuity of the growth process among the G7 countries

The stability of the growth process, whether growth rates are rising, falling, or constant, is one of the central questions of economic growth theory. We use recently developed techniques for identifying structural change in economic time series, and find evidence of multiple breaks in per capita real GDP of the G7 countries over the past 120 years. Once determined, these breaks are used to delineate time periods. Although there is some evidence of individual periods of slowdowns, the overall tendency appears to be one of increasing steady state growth over the long run.     

Performance evaluations of physician executives. Interview by Barbara J. Linney.

Six senior physician executives were interviewed to see how they were doing or not doing performance reviews in their organizations. There seems to be a trend toward doing them, but it is in the beginning stages. Of the physician executives surveyed, the experience ranges from formal lengthy evaluations with rating scales to reviewing a short list of goals. Several are in the process of developing new systems or revising old ones. Probably the most useful part of a performance evaluation is the conversation between the physician executive and the person he or she reports to. If you can stop approaching performance evaluations as passing negative judgments on people, but as having a conversation to hear their concerns, learn what their goals are, and offer ways to help them achieve their potential, they can be useful, enjoyable experiences for both people.     

Study tour examines health care systems in Germany, Holland--Part I: A comparison of three health care systems

In October 1992, the American College of Physician Executives sponsored a study tour to Berlin, Germany, and Amsterdam, Holland. Meetings were held with government officials, third-party payers, and providers, and onsite visits were made at hospitals, clinics, and academic centers. The purpose was to study the health care delivery system in those countries and to share some insights with the countries' hosts on the U.S. system. Beginning in this issue of the journal, 5 of the 10 study tour participants describe their impressions of the tour and of the health care systems in the countries that were visited. This first report compares the health care delivery systems of the United States, Germany, and Holland. In subsequent reports, the German and Dutch health care systems will be described in greater detail and the ability of the United States to adopt European health care systems will be assessed.