How we get the job done...

Case Study:  HIE Expansion - Provider Survey

CHALLENGE

Although many Iowa hospitals and clinics are already connected to IHIN, there was a need to expand efforts to connect providers from all care settings. Goals:  improved quality and continuity of care, reduced costs and improved experience for patients and providers.

Solution

Discovery - Sum-IT conducted an environmental scan, consisting of customized surveys of Iowa health providers to explore readiness to participate in the Iowa Health Information Network (IHIN).  The team explored information technology capabilities and scope of electronic exchange of health information for five types of providers

Work with experts - collaborated with IHIN team to understand the HIE strategic goals and developed customized, setting-specific surveys to obtain the information needed to expand HIE participation. Interviewed stakeholders to identify key types of information exchanged and regulatory/payer reporting requirements.

Identify opportunities - for expanding HIE participation to:  Home Health Agencies, Long-term Care, Hospice, Rural Health Clinics and Assisted Living Programs

Results

There are many opportunities to expand provider participation in the HIE.  Link to final report.

Case Study:  Risk Profiling

Challenge

Segment the patient population into high, medium and low risk groups so appropriate interventions for each group can be implemented.

Solution

Data Discovery - analyze claims data to understand characteristics of the patient population

Work with experts - develop model to define risk groups

Identify opportunities - for improving care management and management of chronic conditions

Results

Starting model to use in risk profiling for reimbursement contracts and care management

Case Study:  Population Health Management

CHALLENGE

Gaps in use of clinical care guidelines and fragmented processes for medication reconciliation as patients transition between hospital and outpatient services

SOLUTION

Data Discovery - analyze effectiveness of medication management programs

Work with experts - understand discharge planning and how to involve the pharmacist as an integral part of the care team and how they can impact medication therapy through pharmacy programs

Identify opportunities- for improving care coordination, transitions of care, cost reduction and patient experience

RESULTS

Improved effectiveness of medication management programs