The Health Services QI Coordinator should be a senior health services staff member of what rank or above?

• A. O-5 Lieutenant Commander
• B. O-3 Lieutenant
• C. E-7 Chief Petty Officer
• D. W-2

Answer: (A)

This question tests the minimum rank required for a Health Services Quality Improvement Coordinator. The role is a senior health services position that must have enough authority and perspective to lead cross-departmental quality improvement initiatives, work with medical leadership, and ensure compliance with standards.

Lieutenant Commander (O-5) is the appropriate minimum because it designates a commissioned officer with the seniority and authority needed to oversee QA across clinical programs, coordinate with command leadership, and represent Health Services in higher-level discussions. A Lieutenant (O-3) is not as senior and would typically lack the requisite scope of authority. An enlisted Chief Petty Officer (E-7) is not an officer, so the rank structure and leadership responsibilities differ. A Warrant Officer (W-2) sits on a distinct track and does not fulfill the requirement for a commissioned officer at this level. Therefore, the best answer is Lieutenant Commander.