Transparency in Clinical Health Outcomes: The CABG Report Card

On September 7, 2010, Consumer Union, the publisher of Consumer Reports, teamed up with Society of Thoracic Surgeons to publish consumer report cards on Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) procedures.  This collaboration opens the door to accessible health information for patients and their families, providers, and sets a measurable form of accountability. The report card scores performance based on clinical outcomes and process measures, giving 1-3 stars, (1-lowest, 3-highest). Health care advocates are hoping that this type of reporting will launch a new culture of transparency reporting.