Donabedian's model components include structure, process, and which?

• A. Efficiency
• B. Access
• C. Outcome
• D. Satisfaction

Answer: (C)

Donabedian's framework for evaluating healthcare quality breaks care into three components: structure, process, and outcome. Structure refers to the setting and resources that enable care—things like facilities, equipment, staffing, and organizational characteristics. Process covers how care is delivered—the actual clinical activities, interactions, and adherence to evidence-based practices. Outcome measures the results of care—the change in a patient's health status, functional abilities, safety, and even patient-reported results such as satisfaction. The component that completes the trio after structure and process is outcome, because it captures the end results and impact of the care provided. While efficiency or access influence care quality and satisfaction is a type of outcome measure, they do not constitute the three core components themselves.