A federal initiative aimed at improving healthcare access and quality in rural areas by providing funding, technical assistance, and regulatory flexibility to Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) and other rural hospitals.
A small, rural hospital designated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to receive enhanced reimbursement and regulatory flexibility under the Flex Program. CAHs must meet specific criteria related to size, distance from other hospitals, and services offered.
Organizations contracted by CMS to work with healthcare providers to improve the quality of care delivered to Medicare beneficiaries. QIOs often collaborate with Flex Program participants to implement quality improvement initiatives.
Support provided to Flex Program participants to help them navigate regulatory requirements, implement quality improvement initiatives, optimize financial performance, and enhance healthcare services in rural communities.
A designated individual within a state’s Flex Program office responsible for coordinating activities, providing technical assistance, and facilitating communication between CMS, CAHs, and other stakeholders.
The use of telecommunications technology to provide healthcare services remotely, bridging the gap in access to specialists and other healthcare providers in rural areas. Flex Program funds may support telehealth initiatives to improve access to care for rural populations.
The process of comparing performance metrics, such as clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and financial indicators, against established standards or best practices. Flex Program participants often engage in benchmarking activities to identify areas for improvement and track progress over time.
Systems that enable the electronic sharing of patient health information among healthcare providers, improving care coordination and reducing duplication of services. Flex Program funding may support the development and implementation of HIE initiatives in rural communities.
A systematic process for identifying the healthcare needs and priorities of a community, often involving input from residents, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders. Flex Program funds may support community needs assessments to inform strategic planning and resource allocation.
Quantitative indicators used to assess the impact of healthcare interventions on patient health, quality of care, and healthcare costs. Flex Program participants may collect and report outcome measures as part of quality improvement efforts and program evaluation.