Consultation offers a cost-effective option that can develop into a satisfying, collaborative relationship that is highly productive, given the right ingredients: content and process knowledge on the part of the consultant, a systemic approach to change, and a foundation of professional and ethical standards on which to build a trustworthy partnership. It is an excellent way to gain access to the objectivity and expertise so often needed in quality improvement efforts and a winning strategy for closing the gaps between current performance and vision.