Use the following references to formulate your answer to the question below:
- American Hospital Association. (2012). Managing population health: The role of the hospital. Retrieved from http://www.hpoe.org/Reports-HPOE/managing_population_health.pdf
- Clark, M. (2013). Three key elements for successful population health management (Research Briefing). Retrieved from https://www.advisory.com/-/media/Advisory-com/Research/HCAB/Research-Study/2013/Three-Elements-for-Successful-Population-Health-Management/Three-Key-Elements-for-Successful-Population-Health-Management.pdf
- Hong, C. S., Siegel, A. L., & Ferris, T. G. (2014). Caring for high-need, high-cost patients: What makes for a successful care management program? Commonwealth Fund Issue Brief. Retrieved from http://www.commonwealthfund.org/~/media/files/publications/issue-brief/2014/aug/1764_hong_caring_for_high_need_high_cost_patients_ccm_ib.pdf
What are some examples of successful strategies an integrated delivery system could employ to overcome challenges of expanding population health-related activities? Answer with a one page paper in APA format
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction
An integrated delivery system is an organization that provides a coordinated and seamless delivery of healthcare services to a defined population. Such organizations face challenges when expanding population health-related activities, including inadequate resources and infrastructure, physician resistance, and difficulty in engaging patients. This paper discusses some successful strategies that integrated delivery systems could use to overcome these challenges.
Examples of Successful Strategies for Overcoming Challenges in Expanding Population Health-Related Activities
One successful strategy integrated delivery systems could use to overcome challenges in expanding population health-related activities is to establish strong relationships with community-based organizations, including non-profits, schools, and churches. These organizations can help health systems share information with patients, identify patients who are at risk, and coordinate care. For example, the Minneapolis-based Allina Health System partnered with community organizations to establish a program that provides affordable fresh produce to low-income individuals. By partnering with these organizations, Allina has been able to expand its population health-related activities.
Another successful strategy is leveraging technology to improve care coordination and communication. Tools such as electronic health records (EHRs) can help providers monitor patient care, reduce medical errors, and improve outcomes. For example, NorthShore University Health System in Illinois uses a care coordination platform to monitor patient medication adherence, manage referral workflows, and improve communication between providers. The platform has helped NorthShore improve patient outcomes, reduce care costs, and increase patient satisfaction.
Finally, integrated delivery systems can use data analytics to identify patients who are at risk and to develop targeted interventions. For example, the Geisinger Health System in Pennsylvania uses predictive analytics to identify patients who are likely to be readmitted to the hospital. The system then provides these patients with targeted care management interventions, such as home visits by nurses and medication reconciliation. This approach has helped Geisinger reduce readmissions and improve patient outcomes.
Conclusion
Expanding population health-related activities can be challenging for integrated delivery systems, but there are strategies that can help these systems overcome these challenges. By building strong partnerships with community-based organizations, leveraging technology to improve care coordination and communication, and using data analytics to identify patients who are at risk, integrated delivery systems can improve patient outcomes, reduce care costs, and increase patient satisfaction.