Which of the following is the role of a quality specialist in developing clinical pathways?

Per the NAHQ CPHQ exam blueprint, clinical pathways are clinician-driven tools based on evidence-based practice. The role of the quality specialist is to support, not direct, clinical decision-making.

Option A is correct because quality specialists contribute data analysis, evidence synthesis, and performance information to inform pathway development. Clinicians use this information to design pathways aligned with best practice.

Option B is typically a clinical leadership role. Option C is inappropriate because pathway development requires clinical expertise. Option D occurs after implementation.

The CPHQ framework stresses collaboration, with quality professionals acting as facilitators and data experts, making Option A correct.