The degree of conformity with accepted principles and practices (standards), the degree of fitness for the patient’s needs, and the degree of attainment of achievable outcomes (results), consonant with the appropriate allocation or use of resources. The phrase “quality of care” carries the concept that quality is not equivalent to “more” or “higher technology” or higher cost. The “degree of conformity” with standards focuses on the provider’s performance, while the “degree of fitness” for the patient’s needs indicates that the patient may present conditions which override strict conformity with otherwise prescribed procedures.