Managing wounds in a managed care environment: the integration concept.

Integration is being discussed at all levels today in healthcare. The term is confusing and the literature provides numerous definitions and explanations. In general, integration refers to the coordination and reorganization of various healthcare units (such as home health care, acute care hospitals, and skilled nursing facilities) either horizontally, vertically, or via a combination of both. To discuss integration, a healthy understanding of managed care and healthcare trends are essential. With current and projected future trends serving as a backdrop, this article will attempt to describe various integration delivery models. The application of the above to wound care as a specific disease state serves as the closing message.