What are Core Measures?
Core measures are a set of care processes which were initially developed by The Joint Commission, the accrediting body responsible for setting standards for healthcare. The purpose of these standards is to improve the quality of healthcare by implementing a national, standardized performance measurement system. These measures will now be used by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for reimbursement because the evidence has supported the theory that by using these measures, there is reduced risk of complications, prevention of recurrences and otherwise standardized treatment for better patient care.
Comparing Performance
Hospitals across the country have been measured and compared by The Joint Commission on its performance in these Core Measures. This data “lags” so that all facilities can be compared equally across time. The information is posted to the Joint Commission website and the www.cms.gov website, on hospital compare.
What are each of the Core Measures?
There are four categories (acute myocardial infarction, community-acquired pneumonia, congestive heart failure, and surgical care improvement project). Under each category, key actions are listed that represent the most widely accepted, research-based care process for appropriate care.
