The National Committee for Quality Assurance is a private, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. Since its founding in 1990, NCQA has been a major figure in driving improvement in the health care system and is constantly helping  elevate the issue of health care quality to the top of the national mind frame.

This year marks the 25th anniversary for NCQA, and to celebrate this legacy, they are hosting several special events throughout the year.

President’s Words

NCQA President Margaret E. O’Kane said of the anniversary, “Twenty-five years ago, few believed it was possible to measure health care quality, much less use that information to drive improvement. Together, with the help of quality advocates, committed clinicians and payers, we have overcome many obstacles and have saved thousands of lives.
 
This fall, we will convene dynamic and diverse health care leaders for an engaging conversation on the future of quality and value. We welcome support from our partners and sponsors for this invigorating look ahead. We celebrate our 25th Anniversary with our partners and friends who have inspired us in so many ways, and who have helped us improve health care across America.
 
On behalf of the Board of Directors and my colleagues at NCQA, I thank everyone who has supported NCQA for the last 25 years and for your continued commitment to improving health care for all Americans.”

Special Events

The organization is hosting a gala on September 16, 2015 at the National Portrait Gallery’s Kogod Courtyard to commemorate 25 years of dedication to quality care. During the dinner and social hour, guests can mingle with important figures in the health care field and enjoy and evening of guest speakers. Current sponsors include Abbot Laboratories, Sanofi, Merck, Novo Nordisk, and more.

NCQA is also hosting Quality Talks on November 9th, a gathering of dynamic speakers who will explain their ideas on how the quality of healthcare in America can continue to improve. This gathering is a place to share stories and discuss the successes and concerns about the direction of healthcare.

NCQA Accreditation

NCQA is widely known for the excellence associated with its healthcare accreditation. Their Quality Scorecard examines everything from ongoing care initiatives to licensure and certification of care providers. They provide accreditation for everything from health plans to provider organizations to contracting organizations. Once earned, the NCQA stamp of approval has a powerful effect both inside and outside the organization.

On the Horizon

No other large events have been announced at this time, but you may hear about some smaller scale projects that pop up throughout the year. We congratulate NCQA on their legacy of success and dedication to quality care.