A method for implementing effective channel quality indication includes, at an endpoint of a wireless network, establishing a communication session with an access station via a wireless connection. The method also includes determining a highest modulation and coding scheme (“MCS”) value supported by the endpoint using the wireless connection. The method further includes determining whether an immediately preceding MCS level is supported by the endpoint using the wireless connection. The method additionally includes transmitting a message from the endpoint. The message comprises an effective channel quality indication (“ECQI”) provides an indication of the highest supported MCS level for the wireless connection and an indication of whether the endpoint supports the immediately preceding MCS value for the wireless connection.