A federal agency dedicated to enhancing the quality, appropriateness, and effectiveness of healthcare services in the United States, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) conducts and supports research, demonstration projects, and evaluations. It also develops guidelines and disseminates information on healthcare services and delivery systems. Headquartered in North Bethesda, Maryland, AHRQ is one of twelve agencies within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Research and Data Collection
AHRQ focuses on collecting and analyzing healthcare data to inform policy and practice. The agency supports research on patient safety, healthcare quality, and healthcare disparities.
- Patient Safety: AHRQ funds research to reduce medical errors and improve patient safety.
- Healthcare Quality: The agency supports efforts to measure and improve the quality of healthcare services.
- Healthcare Disparities: AHRQ conducts research to address disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.
Programs and Initiatives
AHRQ manages several programs and initiatives aimed at improving healthcare delivery and outcomes.
- Evidence-based Practice Centers (EPCs): These centers develop evidence reports and technology assessments to inform healthcare decisions.
- Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP): HCUP provides data on hospital utilization, costs, and outcomes.
- Patient-Centered Outcomes Research (PCOR): AHRQ supports research that compares the benefits and harms of different healthcare interventions.
Integration into HHS
As part of the announced 2025 HHS reorganization, AHRQ is planned to be integrated into the new HHS Office of Strategy. This integration aims to streamline healthcare research and policy efforts within the department.