The Outcome-Based Quality Improvement Pilot Project: A Perspective from Maryland

Abstract

Home health agencies have been collecting objective outcome data through their OASIS assessments since 1999. These data are being used to produce three reports: the adverse event outcome report, the risk-adjusted outcome report, and the case mix report. In early 2002, agencies nationwide will receive a risk-adjusted outcome report and case mix report, which will be used for Outcome-Based Quality Improvement (OBQI). The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has funded the Outcome-Based Quality Improvement Pilot Project. The Quality Improvement Organizations (QIO) in five states—Maryland, Michigan, New York, Rhode Island, and Virginia—and approximately 416 volunteer agencies are participating in this project. This article provides an overview of implementing the pilot project in Maryland and shares the observations and experiences of the Maryland QIO Project Coordinator.