Texas Tech Physicians (TTP) of Lubbock has recently been approved for membership in the National Quality Forum (NQF). The NQF is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that works to improve the quality of American healthcare by looking at how patients are treated on a daily basis and providing evidence based standards on how to meet the needs of every patient in a more effective and efficient fashion.

NQF members are organized into eight councils, each representing distinct perspectives critical to advancing healthcare quality. TTP will join the Provider Organization Council, and TTP director of performance improvement Dana Garay, RN, BSN, JD, believes this opportunity will allow TTP to better serve the needs of the community.

“By the mere nature of our own mission and vision, TTP has an obligation to take an active role to meet both internal and national goals for better, more affordable care,

healthy people, and healthier communities,” Garay said. “As a member, we will have the opportunity to take part in a national dialogue about how to measure quality and a voice in shaping the future of healthcare in this country.”

NQF measures are considered the gold standard for measuring quality healthcare and both state and federal governments use these measures in specific payment and accountability programs. Brent Magers, Executive Associate Dean, School of Medicine, and Chief Executive Officer, Texas Tech Physicians believes this is yet another way to stay informed and flexible to meet the changing needs of patients.

"Texas Tech Physicians' membership with the National Quality Forum is testimony to our dedication to deliver the best patient outcomes as we pursue our journey as a top-tier medical practice,” said Magers. “We are appreciative of Dana Garay, RN, Director of Performance Improvement, for her work in making this accomplishment a reality. New resources and opportunities now available to Texas Tech Physicians will be most helpful."