What is the primary focus of continuous quality improvement (CQI)?

The primary focus of continuous quality improvement (CQI) is on ongoing efforts to improve services and outcomes. This approach emphasizes the importance of systematically evaluating and refining processes, practices, and outcomes over time to enhance quality in a sustained manner. Unlike a one-time initiative, CQI encourages an iterative process where feedback and data are continually used to identify areas for improvement and implement changes. This ongoing cycle fosters an organizational culture that prioritizes learning and adaptation, allowing for enhancements to be made as new challenges arise or as new information becomes available.

Other options may represent aspects related to quality but do not capture the essence of CQI. For instance, achieving compliance with regulations is often a necessary component of maintaining quality, but it is not the overarching goal of CQI, which seeks to go beyond mere compliance. Implementing a fixed set of procedures lacks the flexibility that CQI embodies, as this method welcomes change and evolution rather than relying on static processes. Focusing solely on reducing costs can be shortsighted; while cost improvement is important, CQI emphasizes improving quality outcomes in conjunction with cost management to ensure comprehensive care and services.