FAQs: Primary Care Advancement

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about NCQA’s Primary Care Advancement program. If you do not see what you are looking for below, you can search NCQA’s database of additional common questions or ask a question through My NCQA.

• What is the Primary Care Advancement program?

  The Primary Care Advancement program provides physician groups, independent practices and health systems with a clear, credible path to demonstrate and advance primary care capabilities through a scalable, tiered Accreditation framework.

• Who is this program for?

  This program is designed for organizations delivering or supporting primary care, including independent physician practices, medical groups, health systems, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), community health centers and organizations participating in value-based care arrangements.

• Why was this program created?

  The healthcare landscape continues to evolve, with growing expectations around value-based care, population health management, care coordination and accountability. NCQA developed the Primary Care Advancement program to provide a roadmap for organizations seeking to continuously advance primary care capabilities in response to these changing demands.

• What are the eligibility requirements?

  Any organization involved in providing or overseeing primary care services may apply for an NCQA Accreditation in Primary Care Advancement if it meets the following criteria:

  • Has been in operation for at least 6 months.
  • Enrolls, or receives enrollment, of an identifiable primary care patient population that is eligible to access the organization or the organization’s entities and facilities.
  • Provides comprehensive primary care services to patients through an organized delivery system across a continuum of care.
  • Performs or coordinates functions addressed in the Standards and Guidelines for Accreditation in Primary Care Advancement, either directly or through a service agreement.
  • Complies with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations, including any requirements for licensure.
  • Complies with all anti-discrimination laws and regulations, and does not discriminate based on gender, sexual orientation, race, creed or national origin.
  • Has a process for monitoring, evaluating and improving the quality and safety of care provided to its patients.

  If you answered yes to all questions, your organization is likely a strong candidate for this program. If you answered no, please reach out to a member of our team through My NCQA and they will help determine the best next step for your organization.

• How long is this Accreditation valid?

  Accreditation in Primary Care Advancement is valid for three years.

• What are the benefits of obtaining this Accreditation?

  Organizations that earn this accreditation can:

  • Strengthen operational performance.
  • Improve quality and patient outcomes.
  • Enhance care coordination.
  • Support value-based care initiatives.
  • Demonstrate accountability.
  • Differentiate themselves in the market.
  • Create a culture of continuous improvement.
• How does Primary Care Advancement relate to the NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) Recognition program?

  The Primary Care Advancement program builds on NCQA’s experience with PCMH Recognition and incorporates lessons learned from years of supporting primary care transformation. The Primary Care Advancement program provides a broader framework for organizations committed to ongoing advancement and measurable improvement.