Transforming Healthcare Quality Through Information Technology (THQIT) - Planning Grants

Developed an implementation plan for an ambulatory EMR in a medically underserved region that electronically connects physician offices, the regional hospital, ancillary services, and other community health services. The project work identified indicators that track measurable improvements in patient safety, quality of care, clinician and patient satisfaction, and operational efficiency.

Designed the implementation of a longitudinal cardiovascular disease information system platform to address disparities viewed as a lifelong disease process, and examined the impact of health IT on quality improvement, medical and financial effectiveness, and increased value.

Developed a plan for enhancing communication at care transitions through an implementation plan for a community- and patient-shared EMR abstract that is available at the point of care.

This project developed a comprehensive plan for health IT implementation and integration by assessing specific clinical and organizational needs, feasibility of health IT implementation, defining project parameters, developing the implementation plan, and specifying procedures for ongoing evaluation and feedback.

Identified essential technological needs for accessing and sharing data and information between patients and health care providers; developed an implementation plan to expand the transmission of referral information electronically in a closed health system to an open system.

Developed a shared electronic repository for patient-level prescription medication data that enables real-time access for patients receiving health care services and plans a model system designed to electronically link prescription medication data across hospitals and physician practices.

Developed a database that includes diagnoses, health records, and educational information on children with special health care needs, with emphasis on children with genetic conditions and developmental disabilities. This information was made available to physicians via a secure Web-based system.