The Institute of Medicine released a much-anticipated report on Medicare Quality Improvement Organizations (QIOs), arguing that the responsibility for investigating patient complaints should be given to somebody else. The report echoes earlier findings that had argued QIOs may not be looking into problems as rigorously as necessary because of financial links to doctors and hospitals. The Institute argues that QIOs should refine their focus to concentrate solely on providing technical assistance to hospitals, a role that is expected to become increasingly important as quality ratings take on a higher profile role in the health system. Recommended changes include greater oversight of QIO activities and increased organizational transparency.
- see this article from The Washington Post
- read the report from the Institute of Medicine