Citing a lack of scientific studies analyzing the work-flow implications of electronic health record implementation at small and medium-size primary care settings, the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality is commissioning a three-year study at six clinics affiliated with Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The analysis will focus on patients with diabetes and examine the impact that practice re-design has on work-flow, office operations and care coordination.
The study will include interviews with patients in order to ascertain impact on attitudes toward self-care. Vanderbilt’s “My Health Team” care coordination redesign program focuses on chronic care registries; shared viewing of care plans among clinical staff; automated alerts and reminders; patient self-management at home via electronic messaging; and frequent interactions with care coordinators via telephone and secure patient portals. The study will be undertaken by RTI International and is intended to identify best practices in managing high-cost conditions. The study notice appears in the January 7, 2013 Federal Register (vol 78, number 4) available at www.gpo.gov.