Role redefinition in health care

A great deal is expected from the redefinition of professional roles in the health care sector. The assumption is that re-demarcation between existing professions and the creation of new professional groups – non-doctors who are nevertheless competent to perform certain medical procedures – will raise quality standards and lead to more efficient care. Quality and efficiency improvements are needed if the sector is to continue providing appropriate care as demand rises. However, little is yet known about the scientific validity of these expectations.
The uncertainty surrounding the effects of role redefinition was identified as one of the remaining obstacles to change by the Council for Public Health and Health Care (RVZ) in 2002. The other obstacles identified by the Council were uncertainty regarding patient and professional acceptance of change, and legal and financial constraints.