Health plans with an interim accreditation have been determined by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) to have basic structure and processes in place to meet expectations for consumer protection and quality improvement. Organizations awarded this status undergo a full survey within the following 18 months to demonstrate they have executed those processes effectively, at which point they will be eligible to receive full accreditation.

NCQA is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of health care organizations.

It also recognizes clinicians and practices in key areas of performance. NCQA’s website ( www.ncqa.org ) contains information to help consumers, employers and others make more informed health care choices.