What link does the Hospital-Acquired Condition Reduction Program (HACRP) make?

The Hospital-Acquired Condition Reduction Program (HACRP) is a key initiative that establishes a direct connection between Medicare payments and the quality of health care delivered in hospitals. This program aims to incentivize hospitals to improve patient safety and reduce the occurrence of certain conditions that hospital patients may acquire during their stay, such as infections or injuries. By linking a portion of Medicare reimbursement to the performance indicators, the HACRP encourages hospitals to enhance their care practices, thereby ensuring that patients receive safer and higher-quality care. This connection not only affects how hospitals are funded but also promotes a culture of continuous improvement in the health care system, prioritizing patient outcomes.