The Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF)

The Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) was introduced on 1 April 2004.

QOF rewards practices for the provision of 'quality care' and helps to fund further improvements in the delivery of clinical care.

When QOF was first introduced, the following principles were agreed on where QOF standards should apply:

• Where responsibility for ongoing management of the patient rests primarily with the GP and the primary care team.
• Where there is evidence of health benefits resulting from improved primary care.
• Where the disease is a priority in a number of the four nations.