This article analyzes the development and current status of clinical pathways(CPs)in the United States,the European Union,and Japan.CPs are standardized treatment models based on medical evidence and guidelines,aiming to improve therapeutic outcomes,reduce costs,ensure treatment consistency,enhance medical service efficiency,and increase patient satisfaction.The United States has promoted CPs since 1985,driving their development through legislation and professional associations to improve service quality and reduce medical expenditures.The European Union supports the development and evaluation of CPs through the European Pathway Association,emphasizing the improvement of patient treatment outcomes.Japan uses CPs as a tool to improve the quality of medical services,with an emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration.All three have shown positive effects of CPs in improving medical service efficiency and reducing costs.However,they also face challenges such as overemphasis on cost control,lack of transparency,and physician cooperation.China can draw on these experiences to promote the development of CPs and enhance the quality and efficiency of medical services.

This article analyzes the development and current status of clinical pathways(CPs)in the United States,the European Union,and Japan.CPs are standardized treatment models based on medical evidence and guidelines,aiming to improve therapeutic outcomes,reduce costs,ensure treatment consistency,enhance medical service efficiency,and increase patient satisfaction.The United States has promoted CPs since 1985,driving their development through legislation and professional associations to improve service quality and reduce medical expenditures.The European Union supports the development and evaluation of CPs through the European Pathway Association,emphasizing the improvement of patient treatment outcomes.Japan uses CPs as a tool to improve the quality of medical services,with an emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration.All three have shown positive effects of CPs in improving medical service efficiency and reducing costs.However,they also face challenges such as overemphasis on cost control,lack of transparency,and physician cooperation.China can draw on these experiences to promote the development of CPs and enhance the quality and efficiency of medical services.