This issue of JACM (25:1) focuses on the new Institute of Medicine report on quality, Crossing the Quality Chasm. Barry Greene, associate editor of the journal, has brought together a range of experts whose articles deal with many of the same topics as the report. In addition, Robert Keller and colleagues at the Maine Medical Assessment Project provide a summary of the successes this important provider-profiling project has achieved. Also, a new feature is inaugurated, one that highlights the importance of understanding and applying statistical concepts. Ray Carey will author an article in each issue that explores the questions we practitioners need to be aware of if we are ever to seriously apply the recommendations in the IOM report, for instance. Finally, Mark Holt continues with his report from the Republic of Texas.