The CMS began its restructuring of the quality improvement organization (QIO) program with changes announced last week. The first phase will allow two beneficiary and family-centered care QIO contractors to support the program’s case review and monitoring activities separate from the traditional quality improvement activities of the QIOs.

The QIO program’s second phase is expected in July and will award contracts to organizations that work with providers and communities on data-driven quality initiatives to improve patient safety, reduce harm, and boost patient care.

Read the press release here.