Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) is the lead Federal agency charged with improving the safety and quality of America's health care system. AHRQ develops the knowledge, tools, and data needed to improve the health care system and help Americans, health care professionals, and policymakers make informed health decisions. The website provides information about their programs, research being done, access to data/tools, and more.