Composite Evaluation Framework

Purpose

This project seeks to achieve consensus on a framework for evaluating composite measures and identifying items for a composite measure submission form.

Background

Although NQF has existing criteria for the submission and evaluation of individual measures, there were no such criteria for composite measures. Working with the Composite Measure Steering Committee, a draft framework and submission criteria was developed. Comments have been solicited from measure developers thus far and incorporated into this document where appropriate.

Scope of Activities

Specifically for this project, the NQF will work with the full range of stakeholders to:

• Develop a comprehensive framework for the evaluation of composite measures, including a glossary of terms;
• Develop an adjunct measure submission form to be completed in addition to the individual measure submission form.
• Use the final criteria to evaluate composite measures submitted under the Hospital Care Additional Priorities 2007 project.
• Identify the additional analyses required for the composite and test them within the Phase 3, Cycle 3 Ambulatory Care Composite Development project.

The NQF Process

This project, like all NQF activities involves the active participation of representatives from across the spectrum of healthcare stakeholders. The project is guided by the Composite Measure Steering Committee.

Funding

Support for this project is provided by The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. For more information, contact Lisa Hines at 202.783.1300 or e-mail composites@qualityforum.org.