What is a standardized measure used for evaluating healthcare services nationally?

The Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) serves as a standardized measure for evaluating and comparing healthcare services on a national level. HEDIS was developed by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and encompasses a range of performance measures in key areas of clinical care and service. These measures provide a framework for assessing the quality of care provided by health plans and healthcare systems, allowing for comparisons across different providers and facilitating improvements in healthcare delivery.

HEDIS measures are utilized by many healthcare plans and organizations to promote accountability and transparency, which enhances the ability to make informed decisions by consumers and payers. This standardization is crucial as it allows for consistent data collection and analysis, making it easier to identify trends and areas that need improvement in healthcare quality nationwide.