ESRD NETWORK 6 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

Network 6 Quality Improvement ProgramThe Network continued to enhance its Quality Improvement Program in 2011,guided by the definition of quality set forth by the Institute of Medicine (IOM),which is “The degree to which health services for individuals and populationsincrease the likelihood of desired health outcomes and are consistent withcurrent professional knowledge.”Network 6’s Quality Improvement Program adheres to these principles:Providers will measure outcomes, implement appropriate interventions and improvecareNetwork 6 will provide technical assistance, training and oversight toassist facilities in improving careProviders and Network 6 will strive for early identification of opportunitiesfor improvementProviders and Network 6 will use available data to identify opportunitiesfor improvement and to measure progressNetwork 6 Quality Improvement Work PlanThe Quality Improvement program incorporates a Quality Improvement Work Plan(QIWP) that guides all the Network activities aimed at improving the quality of caredelivered. The Network 6 Medical Review Board under the direction of the Board ofDirectors collaboratively developed the 2011 plan, which includes interventions andprojects aimed at addressing specific CMS and Network goals. The MRB and QI staffcontinually review the QI Work Plan and update as needed. The 2011 QIWP had fourmajor projects in 2011:I. Increasing AVFs through Focus on Incident Patients and Using Existing AVFsII. Adequately Dialyzing ESRD BeneficiariesIII. Increasing Influenza Immunizations in Network 6IV. Increasing AVFs Through Catheter ReductionP a g e | 33