Iowa Flex MBQIP Program Recognized

Compass Healthcare Collaborative is proud to share that Iowa has been recognized with a 2026 Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Medicare Rural Hospital Flexibility (Flex) Medicare Beneficiary Quality Improvement Project (MBQIP) Award during the Flex Program Reverse Site Visit in Washington D.C.

The award recognizes state Flex Programs that demonstrate outstanding reporting rates and quality improvement results among critical access hospitals, highlighting a continued commitment to strengthening patient care in rural communities. Iowa was one of eleven states recognized nationally for its achievements.

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"This award recognizes the commitment and dedication the Iowa critical access hospitals have towards improving the quality and safety of patients, families and the communities they serve. This award also serves as a recognition of the strong partnership we have with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. We are grateful to support our hospitals as they continue this quality improvement journey.”

- Charisse Coulombe, Compass’ Director of Hospital Quality Initiatives

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As Iowa's Flex Program Quality Improvement and Population Health partner, Compass Healthcare Collaborative works alongside the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services and Iowa’s critical access hospitals to support quality improvement initiatives that help rural hospitals enhance patient safety, improve clinical outcomes, and strengthen healthcare delivery.

For Compass Healthcare Collaborative, this award represents more than a milestone. This reflects the strength of partnerships across Iowa's rural healthcare system. By working collaboratively with hospitals, state agencies, and national partners, Compass continues to demonstrate that quality improvement is an ongoing commitment that benefits patients, providers, and communities alike.

Compass extends its congratulations to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, Iowa's critical access hospitals, and all of the Iowa hospital leaders whose dedication made this national recognition possible. We also congratulate the other state Flex Programs recognized this year for their shared commitment to improving rural healthcare across the country.

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As we celebrate this achievement, Compass Healthcare Collaborative remains committed to supporting rural hospitals through education, collaboration, and quality improvement initiatives that strengthen patient safety and improve healthcare outcomes for all Iowans.

The HRSA Flex MBQIP is a national quality improvement initiative that encourages critical access hospitals to use data to measure performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and implement evidence-based strategies that improve patient outcomes. Through this initiative, 45 states provide technical assistance and resources that help rural hospitals advance quality, operational performance, and access to care.