When one defines quality, several factors can determine the actual meaning. One way to define quality would be “the standard of something that is measured against other things of a similar kind, or the degree of excellence in something,” (Oxford University Press, 2012).
Nowadays, quality refers to the level of a product or services’ performance, the level in which it meets the needs of consumers, its longevity within the marketplace, and the commitment and expectations producers have for their goods and services. Due to the fact that there are several ways to define the meaning of quality, it would almost be impossible to determine one specific answer. “For consumers’ perceptions to fully adjust and accurately reflect products’ true quality takes five to seven years, on average, depending on many factors, including the type of product, the strength of its brand, and how often it’s purchased,” (Mitra and Golder, 2007).
Quality in Health Care
Much like the definition found in the Oxford Dictionary, “quality health care strives for and reaches excellent standards of care,” (Stern, 2012). Quality can have the same meaning when it comes to both providers and consumers. In health care, quality can be measured by the level of care provided to patients, care employees receive within an organization, the care put in to providing beneficial medical treatments and medications possible, and the care of governmental, employer, and insurance companies to provide the most affordable and useful coverage possible. The quality of health care also has to do with success in treatment of a patient. Although changes in laws, technology and consumers demands have changed, quality will always hold great importance within this society.
Personal Views on Health Care
It is my belief, as stated in the beginning, that one would not be able to pinpoint the true meaning of quality. This word has a different meaning for everyone. To me, quality does not have to do with a perfect product or service, but the level of changes they may go through to constantly meet the needs of consumers. In order to meet needs and demands, it’s important to understand the community in which the goods and services are being provided. I believe that quality not only provides value to people, but that it provides a sense of trust, support, and dependence amongst its community.
References:
ASK Process, Inc. (2010). Quality = Business Value, Why Common Definitions of Quality Fall Short.
In ASK Process. Retrieved May 20, 2012, from
Mitra, D., & Golder, P. N. (2007, April 1). Quality Is in the Eye of the Beholder. Harvard Business Review.
Retrieved May 23, 2012, from http://hbr.org/2007/04/quality-is-in-the-eye-of-the-beholder/ar/1
Oxford Dictionaries. (2010, April). Quality. Oxford Dictionaries.
Retrieved May 20, 2012, from
Stern, D. (2012). Definition of Quality Health Care. In eHow Health. Retrieved May 20, 2012, from
