Avedis Donabedian

Avedis Donabedian (January 7, 1919 – November 9, 2000) was a physician and health services researcher at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. He is best known for his work in the field of healthcare quality and for developing the Donabedian Model, which is a framework for examining health services and evaluating quality of care.

Early Life and Education

Avedis Donabedian was born in Beirut, Lebanon, to an Armenian family. He completed his medical education at the American University of Beirut and later pursued a Master of Public Health degree at the Harvard School of Public Health.

Career

Donabedian joined the faculty at the University of Michigan in 1961, where he conducted pioneering research in the field of healthcare quality. His work laid the foundation for the systematic study of healthcare quality and the development of quality improvement initiatives.

Donabedian Model

The Donabedian Model is a conceptual model that provides a framework for examining health services and evaluating quality of care. It is based on three components:

• Structure: The physical and organizational infrastructure in which care is delivered.
• Process: The methods and procedures used in providing care.
• Outcome: The effects of healthcare on the health status of patients and populations.

This model has been widely adopted in healthcare settings around the world and remains a cornerstone of quality assessment and improvement efforts.

Legacy

Avedis Donabedian's contributions to the field of healthcare quality have had a lasting impact. His work has influenced policy, practice, and research in healthcare systems globally. The Donabedian Award is named in his honor and is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of healthcare quality.

See Also

• Quality of healthcare
• Health services research
• Public health

External Links

• University of Michigan
• Harvard School of Public Health