Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Fig. 8.1
A Clinical Process Model for the PCMH's Follow-up After an Emergency Department
Visit or Hospitalization
understanding of existing clinical processes and to provide policy makers with a
“what if” tool to explore possible new models. The initial effort successfully mod-
eled the Predictive Health Institute, a joint Emory-Georgia Tech initiative. The
model helped show the
future
return on investment due to reduced health costs
could more than justify an investment
now
in a program to accomplish those future
reductions. [
3
] Our current effort is directed at modeling patient-centered care.
Figure
8.1
shows an example of process representation in this evolving new model.
It also illustrates the more structured approach to events, such as an unexpected
emergency room visit or hospitalization, in a patient-centered care model.
The second project, just now getting started, seeks to use simulation and other
technologies to allow planners to better understand the impact of space design and
health IT configuration decisions on the quality and efficiency of care processes. [
4
]
There are many more exciting possibilities than space allows me to discuss. As
I gaze into my crystal ball, at least some of the long deferred dreams of the health
informatics community seem to be finally coming true … in large part in the cloud.
As always, we'll have to wait a while to see how it comes out in the end.
References
3. Park H, Clear T, Rouse WB, Basole RC, Braunstein ML, Brigham K, and Cunningham L
(In Press) Multi-Level Simulation of Health Delivery Enterprises: A Prospective Tool for Policy,
Strategy, Planning and Management. INFORMS Service Science
