Data Storyteller

Increasingly conversations about telehealth describe the need for tailored approaches to digital navigation and literacy to ensure equitable access for all patients. During this session, we will discuss the experience of a large safety net system’s experience of developing a digital navigation program and the resulting impacts on patient healthcare access and connection to community programs.

Collecting sensitive patient information, including data related to Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI), is a critical part of operations for many health centers, especially FQHCs. Though required by many funding and reporting systems, for example, Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Services, integrating how to capture these data in respectful and consistent ways may be a challenge. Based on  experience from an FQHC in Washington, DC with special expertise in LGBTQ+ and HIV Care, the process of training staff and implementing SOGI data-related workflows will be described, including subsequent measurement and Quality Improvement initiatives. Details include examples of registration forms, staff training materials, EMR workflows, and patient-facing resources. The importance of creating affirming spaces to help support effective medical care was also discussed.

This webinar will feature a panel of leaders in the health center world of value based care discussing how data can be managed and leveraged as a strategic asset. As value based care, alternative payment models, and managed care arrangements are becoming more common for health centers, health centers are called on to increase their knowledge and action in this area. Join us to hear from experts and pose any questions you have!

Data standards initiatives and the Uniform Data Set (UDS) Modernization initiative aim to reduce reporting burden through easing data exchange, improve data quality, and better measure services and outcomes. In the coming years, health centers will be expected to use FHIR, a data standard that is becoming more common, to submit UDS+ along with other information (such as public health reporting). Experts involved in preparation for UDS+ and similar initiatives with CMS joined to share their experiences and reflect on what health centers should be aware of as they prepare for the future of UDS and other reporting.

When clinical teams have information on patients' social risks (adverse social determinants of health), they can make care plan adjustments to account for those risks, e.g., by prescribing lower-cost medications. Come hear about a team that worked with stakeholders from primary care community health centers to develop a set of EHR-based tools intended to support making such adjustments in care for patients with hypertension and / or diabetes. This talk described the tool development process, results from pilot testing the tools in three clinic sites, and how the tools were revised in response to pilot process learnings.