What is the main function of the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA)?

The primary function of the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) is to promote quality in healthcare. This organization establishes standards and measures for health plans and healthcare providers to ensure the delivery of high-quality care to patients. By developing metrics and conducting evaluations of various healthcare programs, NCQA works to facilitate improvements in accessibility, efficiency, and overall patient satisfaction in the healthcare system. This focus on quality helps stakeholders make informed decisions and promotes accountability among providers, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for individuals and communities.

While the other options address important aspects of healthcare, they do not directly align with the NCQA's core mission. Regulatory functions related to healthcare costs are typically the responsibility of governmental agencies or other organizations, and medical research is conducted by research institutions or universities rather than NCQA itself. Additionally, while NCQA may influence insurance practices through quality measurement, it does not provide healthcare insurance directly.