What type of organization is the National Quality Forum?

The National Quality Forum (NQF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving healthcare quality in the United States. It plays a crucial role in the healthcare system by endorsing measures that drive quality improvement and fostering a culture of accountability. NQF operates by bringing together various stakeholders, including healthcare providers, consumers, and policymakers, to promote standards in healthcare performance improvement and measurement.

As a non-profit, its primary mission focuses on enhancing healthcare quality rather than generating profits, which aligns with the core principles of non-profit organizations that serve a public interest or community need. This mission is reflected in NQF's activities, such as facilitating consensus on quality measures and supporting public reporting initiatives.

Understanding the distinction between the different types of organizations helps clarify why NQF is categorized as a non-profit rather than a for-profit organization, government agency, or health plan provider. Each of these alternatives serves different functions and may have differing objectives, financial structures, and stakeholder involvements in the healthcare ecosystem.