Care pathway
A care pathway is a plan or process that organises and coordinates the care of a patient across different care providers and time periods. The aim is to coordinate care as effectively as possible, so that the patient receives efficient, continuous and high-quality care.
A care pathway describes who does what, when and how, for a particular condition or care need.
In Belgium, a care pathway is also a formal system within the health insurance system (NIHDI). An example of this is the Care Pathway for Type 2 Diabetes. When a patient enters a care pathway:
• they receive better reimbursement for certain types of care,
• a contract must be signed by the patient, GP and specialist,
• and cooperation is based on clear guidelines.