What is the goal of quality improvement?

• A. Improve patient outcomes and system performance through continuous, data-driven change
• B. Decrease costs only
• C. Increase patient satisfaction only
• D. Expand services

Answer: (C)

The goal of quality improvement is to continuously enhance patient outcomes and how the healthcare system performs by making small, data-driven changes in iterative cycles. This approach uses measurements to identify gaps, test changes, and study their impact, then refine or spread successful interventions. It’s broader than just reducing costs or raising satisfaction alone because it targets both the results for patients and the overall efficiency, safety, and reliability of care delivery. While patient satisfaction is important, it’s one part of the bigger aim to improve true outcomes and system performance through ongoing, evidence-based improvement efforts.