The results of the voluntary hospice quality reporting period are in and show that 95.7% hospices keep track of at least three different quality measures related to patient care.

The data reflect the period from Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2011. Hospices were asked to report whether they have a quality assessment and performance improvement (QAPI) program in place that includes at least three patient care indicators. Hospices also were required to list the patient care indicators they use, according to a summary report by CMS contractor RTI International.

The summary report is available here. For more details on the report and additional CMS hospice announcements, see the next issue of HHL.