NQF Supports Modification to Renal Measure 

Washington, DC – The National Quality Forum (NQF) Board of Directors has agreed to support the modification of a quality measure addressing monthly phosphorus testing in dialysis patients, following an ad-hoc review period.

The ad-hoc review was requested by Kidney Care Partners, who contended that testing plasma phosphorus concentration is an acceptable alternative to serum phosphorus testing. The ad-hoc panel agreed, and as a result recommended amending the measure title to remove the word “serum.”

Phosphorus testing is an important part of treatment for dialysis patients, as the kidneys often struggle to remove extra phosphorus from the blood. Higher levels of the mineral can lead to further medical issues, such as low blood calcium, weak bones, or even heart problems.

The NQF endorsement process allows for reconsideration of the endorsed quality measures listed below by submitting an appeal no later than March 25. To submit an appeal, please go to the Quality Positioning System (QPS), NQF’s Measure Database and premier search tool for endorsed measures.

Endorsed Measure

0255: Measurement of Phosphorus Concentration (CMS)

NQF operates under a three-part mission to improve the quality of American healthcare by:

• building consensus on national priorities and goals for performance improvement and working in partnership to achieve them;
• endorsing national consensus standards for measuring and publicly reporting on performance; and
• promoting the attainment of national goals through education and outreach programs.