What is the primary goal of Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) in an EMS system?

The primary goal of Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) in an EMS system is to identify and correct deficiencies in patient care and system performance through ongoing assessment and feedback. CQI is centered around the idea of continuously evaluating and enhancing the quality of care provided by EMS professionals. This involves systematically collecting data on patient outcomes, response times, and other operational metrics.

The ongoing assessment helps in pinpointing areas where services may fall short or where processes could be improved. By utilizing feedback from various stakeholders, including EMS personnel and patients, the system can implement changes that lead to better patient outcomes and more efficient operations. This proactive approach not only enhances patient safety and satisfaction but also fosters a culture of learning and improvement within the EMS organization.

In contrast, options that focus on ensuring the highest level of care without regard to costs, reducing the number of calls, or increasing response times would not align with the holistic, quality-focused nature of CQI. These options do not capture the essence of what CQI aims to accomplish—namely, a systematic commitment to ongoing quality assessment and improvement in service delivery.