1. For health plans, the general standard or grade of how well a plan keeps its members healthy or treats them when they are sick. Good-quality health care means doing the right thing at the right time, in the right way, for the right person, and getting the best possible results. 2. As defined by the Institute of Medicine, the degree to which health services for individuals and populations increase the likelihood of desired outcomes and are consistent with current professional knowledge. 3. Highest degree to which a product or service meets needs and expectations.