Quality improvement (QI) is a systematic, formal approach to the analysis of practice performance and the steps taken to improve physician practice efficiency and performance.

A variety of approaches—or QI models—exist to help you collect and analyze data and test change. While it’s important to choose a reputable QI model to guide your efforts, it’s more important that you fully commit to using the QI process and good QI practices, especially for any practice interested in improving efficiency, patient safety, or clinical outcomes.

In addition, good QI practices and improved patient outcomes position your practice for success by:

• Helping you prepare for the transition to value-based payment models.
• Allowing you to participate in the public reporting of physician-quality data.
• Giving you the opportunity to participate in federal quality improvement incentive programs, such as Meaningful Use and the Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS).
• Equipping you with the skills necessary to apply for and complete national recognition programs, such as National Committee for Quality Assurance’s Diabetes Recognition Program and Patient-Centered Medical Home Recognition.

Learn more about the basics of QI, available tools and instructional videos here.