Featured contributions from CCNC Central Office and Network staff in the May/June 2014 issue of the NC Medical Journal
The Promise of Data-Driven Care
Abstract: With provider payments being adjusted for performance and emphasis being placed on value-based care, large health care systems are already developing the resources necessary to pursue quality improvement (QI) in their practices. This article explains why smaller and/or rural practices also need to learn about and implement QI.
Author: R. W. Watkins, MD, Senior Physician Consultant for Community Care of North Carolina in Ashville, N.C.
Understanding Quality Improvement Is More Important Now Than Ever Before
Abstract: The growing adoption of electronic medical records and advances in health information technology are fueling an explosion of new health data. Expectations are high that new data resources will guide the transformation of the health care industry and positively influence population health. There have been challenges and opportunities at every turn, and progress has been slow, but mounting evidence suggests that better use of data is moving health care in the right direction.
Author: J. Steven Cline, DDS, MPH, Senior Vice President for Strategic Partnerships at Community Care of North Carolina
Navigating an Ocean of Information: How Community Care of North Carolina Uses Data to Improve Care and Control Costs
Abstract: Community Care of North Carolina's 14 networks use data analysis to provide relevant solutions that are responsive to unique regional environments. This article describes some of the ways that these networks use data to improve patient self-management, to meet providers' needs, to improve quality of care, and to control costs.
Author: Randy Barrington, MBA, CPHQ, Provider Services Director at Community Care of the Lower Cape Fear
The Perinatal Quality Collaborative of North Carolina’s 39 Weeks Project: A Quality Improvement Program to Decrease Elective Deliveries Before 39 Weeks of Gestation
Abstract: Despite long-standing guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists that call for avoiding elective births prior to 39 weeks of gestation, elective deliveries make up almost one-third of US births occurring in weeks 36–38. Poor outcomes are more likely for infants born electively before 39 weeks than for those born at 39 weeks. The Perinatal Quality Collaborative of North Carolina (PQCNC) undertook the 39 Weeks Project in 2009–2010 with the aim of reducing the number of early-term elective deliveries in North Carolina hospitals. CONCLUSIONS: The PQCNC's 39 Weeks Project successfully decreased the rate of early-term elective deliveries in participating hospitals.
Author: Kate Berrien, Senior Director of Integrated Health at Community Care of North Carolina