What role does the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR) play in health care quality?

The Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR), now known as the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), plays a vital role in enhancing health care quality by supporting rigorous research initiatives. It focuses on generating evidence to inform best practices and to enhance patient outcomes while also working to reduce health care costs. This research encompasses a wide range of health care topics including treatment effectiveness, patient safety, and health care delivery systems. By providing data and insights, the agency helps policymakers, health care providers, and patients make informed decisions aimed at improving the quality of care.

The other options do not accurately reflect the AHCPR's mission. The agency does not limit its functions to financial audits or administrative procedures, nor does it directly manage hospital operations. Instead, it is dedicated to advancing the science of health care quality and effectiveness through a research-focused approach.