This report focuses on evidence-based pneumonia Quality Improvement (QI) programs and strategies that are applicable to Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs), particularly with respect to MBQIP Phase 1 Measures.

Key Findings:

• Few articles in the peer-reviewed literature evaluate the effectiveness of quality improvement (QI) programs for pneumonia specifically for CAHs.
• The literature primarily addresses programs to improve hospitals’ pneumonia care that were implemented by Quality Improvement Organizations in collaboration with State Flex Programs, State Hospital Associations, and other state and local partners.
• These QI programs primarily focus on improving: 1) the timing and selection of appropriate antibiotics; and 2) pneumococcal and influenza vaccination documentation and rates.
• Several QI strategies have been shown to improve pneumonia care and may be replicable in CAHs.