Contracts with Quality Improvement Organizations (QIOs) are generally valid for how long?

Contracts with Quality Improvement Organizations (QIOs) are typically established for a duration of five years. This term is designed to provide QIOs with adequate time to implement and maintain quality improvement initiatives, assess performance, and make necessary adjustments to enhance healthcare outcomes. The five-year period aligns with the long-term strategies that QIOs often pursue to improve the quality of care delivered in healthcare settings.

In addition, having a longer contract term allows for continuity in quality improvement efforts, which can lead to more significant and sustainable changes within healthcare facilities. This duration is also practical for ensuring that changes in healthcare practices and policies can be effectively developed and evaluated over time. Thus, contracting for three, one, or ten years would not typically align with the strategic objectives QIOs aim to achieve.