Assuring quality of care in long-term facilities

A quality assessment and assurance program is an ongoing, global system that compares the structure, process, or outcome of the care provided with established criteria or standards. A successful QA&A program requires a comprehensive, well-maintained medical records system. Main components of a QA&A program include development of specific criteria; identification of expected results indicative of quality of care; development of an ongoing monitoring system; systematic evaluation; and a plan of correction for identified problems. Quality of care encompasses the patient's satisfaction with care, efficacy of care, technical proficiency and performance of care providers, accessibility and continuity of care, and cost-effectiveness.