AHRQ Launches Quality Measures Web Site

HHS' Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has launched an Internet database of evidence-based quality measures. The National Quality Measures Clearinghouse allows users to search for quality measures related to a specific disease or condition, treatment, age range, gender, vulnerable population, setting of care or contributing organization. The database also instructs users on how to select and interpret a measure. The NQMC will be part of a greater Web site of quality, clinical and decision tools that will include the National Guideline Clearinghouse, allowing users to search for both quality measures and guidelines. HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson said, "This new clearinghouse is an important resource for anyone who wants to improve the quality of health care for patients. ...Ultimately, this interactive online resource will serve as the primary source for the most up-to-date, clinically proven quality measures" (AHRQ release, 2/20).