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Categories Blog Tags Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Data Analytics, Healthcare

Leveraging Data Analytics to Reduce Patient Readmissions: Bizzell’s Impact on Healthcare Quality

Leveraging Data Analytics to Reduce Patient Readmissions: Bizzell’s Impact on Healthcare Quality

By Editorial Staff

Hospitals face many unseen challenges in today’s ever-changing medical landscape. Service utilization, rising care costs, patient readmissions, optimal staffing, and insurance navigation are but a few issues that may arise in healthcare settings. Reducing patient readmissions is a critical priority in healthcare, as it improves patient outcomes and helps alleviate the strain on healthcare resources. In this realm, Bizzell US (Bizzell) stands out as an industry leader, harnessing the power of data analytics to drive transformative change and enhance patient care. High rates of patient readmissions present significant challenges and costs to healthcare systems. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), over $52.4 billion (about $160 per person in the US) is spent annually to care for patients readmitted to the hospital within 30 days (about four weeks) for a previously treated condition[1]Is the Hospital Value-Based Purchasing Program Associated with Reduced Hospital Readmissions? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9113654/. Frequent readmissions strain already stretched healthcare resources, especially amid the rise of COVID-19.

Various analytics techniques shape healthcare strategies. These strategies include predictive, prescriptive, descriptive, and discovery analytics. Predictive analytics aid in anticipating patient outcomes and optimizing prevention efforts, while prescriptive analytics focuses on treatment optimization. Descriptive analytics help us understand healthcare trends over time, including quality of care. It is often used to create reports about changes in historical data over time.

An example of this could be to look at how many face masks are ordered during a pandemic and the types requested during each pandemic. Prescriptive analytics occur when health problems are complex and fuse medical knowledge with data. Most evidence-based medical treatments are supported by prescriptive analytics.

Leveraging a complete spectrum of analytic tools enables us at Bizzell to redefine patient care and enhance the healthcare experience. Predictive analytics also operate on past performance, summarizing historical data to visualize new trends. Predicting risks in drug dosages, clinical trials, epidemic spreads, etc., these analytics find hidden patterns and illuminate them for healthcare professionals. Funding and allocation of funds are moved around utilizing these analytics. Planning healthcare resources, such as how many gauzes or vaccines to order, are confirmed through analytics. Discovery analytics uses knowledge to discover new medical trends, including treatments or instruments[2]The use of Big Data Analytics in healthcare https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8733917/.

At Bizzell, our team of analytics experts is at the forefront of leveraging big data to support the reduction of patient readmissions. From analyzing patient records and drug costs to transforming clinical practice, our commitment to improving healthcare quality and administration shines through in every project we undertake.

Data analytics empower healthcare agencies to make informed decisions and revolutionize their approaches to healthcare delivery. Bizzell, a leader in the field, utilizes advanced analytic methodologies to extract actionable insights from vast datasets. For instance, Bizzell’s support of heart disease and stroke prevention involves sophisticated GIS analyses and statistical modeling to inform strategic priorities and program effectiveness.

Bizzell’s innovative solutions have yielded tangible results in reducing patient readmissions across various healthcare settings. For instance, by implementing predictive analytics models, we successfully identified at-risk patients and implemented targeted interventions to prevent readmissions. These interventions have significantly improved patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency, demonstrating the efficacy of Bizzell’s approaches. We assist our clients by applying advanced machine learning or predictive modeling techniques that uncover hidden patterns that contribute to our hospital partners not functioning optimally. From crisis planning and women’s health to combatting higher readmission rates, the need for data collection is high, but the value lies in the ability to sift through it all to find a true story.

The benefits of utilizing analytics in hospitals cannot be emphasized enough. Beyond cost savings, we aim to encompass improved patient outcomes and enhanced healthcare quality nationwide. Our partnership with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) prospective payment system (PPS) for inpatient psychiatric facilities (IPFs) shows examples of our commitment to this work. Our focus was to re-adjust the standardized federal per diem payment rates paid to the 1,535 participating hospitals nationwide to account for cost changes (like wages) and resource utilization. These rate adjustments consider the beneficiary’s age, selected chronic conditions, and facility-level adjustments on ruralness, teaching status, and qualifying emergency department visits. In 2019, IPFs collectively served over 200,000 Medicare beneficiaries. For this project, ensuring we had the correct data and comparing the data over time was crucial for success.

There is immense potential for further advancements in using analytics to address patient readmissions and other factors contributing to hospital challenges, such as high supply costs, underutilized services, and streamlining healthcare processes. Bizzell remains at the forefront of this innovation, continuously striving to refine its methodologies and expand its impact. By contributing to ongoing efforts to improve healthcare quality and efficiency, Bizzell is driving positive change and shaping the future of healthcare delivery.

References

[1] Is the Hospital Value-Based Purchasing Program Associated with Reduced Hospital Readmissions? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9113654/#:~:text=A%20significant%20portion%20of%20the, be%20attributed%20to%20hospital%20readmission.&text=In%20addition%2C%20over%20%2452.4%20billion, for%20a%20previously%20treated%20condition
[2] The use of Big Data Analytics in healthcare https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8733917/#:~:text=descriptive%20analytics%20in%20 healthcare%20is,making%20informed%20decisions%20%5B33%5D

Categories Blog Tags Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19, Data Analytics, Global Health, Infectious Disease

Pioneering Innovation in Infectious Disease Surveillance: Bizzell’s Impact on Global Health

Pioneering Innovation in Infectious Disease Surveillance: Bizzell’s Impact on Global Health

By Editorial Staff

In the context of global health outcomes, innovative infectious disease surveillance is crucial. As the world grapples with emerging health challenges, the role of robust data collection is pivotal. At its core, infectious disease surveillance can be simplified into a three-pronged framework. At Bizzell, this structure is Detect, Monitor, and Respond, or simply DMR, which emphasizes the capability to detect, monitor, and respond to infectious diseases accurately and precisely.

1. Early Detection: Time is of the essence when it comes to infectious diseases. Innovative surveillance mechanisms can serve as early warning systems, which help detect emergent diseases in their infancy. We believe that building strong and resilience health systems against public health threats begins with a strong health system that provides capacity and capabilities to detect threats. Identifying outbreaks swiftly can make or break global health responses. Proactive approaches are instrumental in preventing and protecting our most vulnerable communities nationwide. Proactive approaches in data collection and detection strategies also allow for the appropriate allocation of resources. Understanding the biological dynamics and trajectory of new and emerging threats can assist in deploying limited personnel, medical instrumentation, and funds in the most effective and strategic ways to maximize efficacy. Bizzell supports early detection processes through data analysis, corrective action plans, and monitoring progress. We provide technical assistance to agencies to establish or improve sentinel sites through standard surveillance-based indicators and community event-based surveillance.

2. Monitoring: Infectious diseases have no concept of borders, race, nationality, or religion. Facilitating real time data exchanges between nations and international health organizations is crucial in fostering global collaboration. Monitoring allows for a collective response to health threats, allowing shared resources, pooled knowledge, and insights to be shared both nationally and internationally. Monitoring also allows for the development of more accurate predictions of pathogenic behavior. This can help develop more concrete and strategic preparedness plans which reduce the impact of infectious diseases on communities.

3. Rapid Response: The speed in which we respond to infectious diseases plays a pivotal role in minimizing the economic impact of outbreaks. By containing diseases at an early stage, countries can avoid widespread disruptions to trade, travel, and productivity. This proactive stance safeguards economic stability and ensures that societies can rebound swiftly from health crises. The response to new health threats is one of the most important pillars in our framework as it is crucial in building public trust and confidence in government and health systems. Compliance has an enormous impact on prevention and stabilization during a health crisis. Appropriate, accurate and innovative communication about infectious disease surveillance, data, and best practices will encourage efforts to control the spread of disease.

There are many new examples of emerging technologies for infectious disease surveillance. Some of these recent technologies include wastewater surveillance, which has gained popularity through testing wastewater for COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2 levels, to determine infection rates[1]National Wastewater Surveillance System (NWSS) https://www.cdc.gov/nwss/wastewater-surveillance.html#:~:text=Wastewater%20surveillance%20 captures%20presence%20of,or%20decreasing%20 in%20a%20sewershed
.

Other examples of innovative technologies include digital epidemiology, syndromic surveillance, social media monitoring, and artificial intelligence or machine learning. Bizzell uses real-time technology such as eIDSR (under the DHIS2 and the CEBS) for data collection, record, analysis, and interpretation public health to assist with public health decision making. A strong surveillance program is one that can integrate the digitalization of the laboratory system which is the backbone for epidemiological surveillance.

Driving innovation in infectious disease surveillance is not just technological but strategy-based as an imperative for global and national health security. The ability to detect, monitor, and respond to health threats with more precision and innovation can be the difference between safeguarding the health, prosperity, and livelihood of future generations or succumbing to mass loss of life. Knowing this, we provide technical and professional support services in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to support the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Division of Global Health Protection (DGHP). We provide services and support in field epidemiology, surveillance, emergency management, and laboratory activities that enhance the CDC’s capacity to monitor and support the implementation of the DRC’s vision to promote a healthier, safer world that can prevent, detect, and respond to disease outbreaks and public health threats.

At Bizzell, we prioritize global solutions to health. We are committed to developing collaborative strategies, weaving together multidisciplinary approaches, strategic partnerships, and innovative technologies. By leveraging diverse expertise and fostering collaborations, Bizzell enhances global health outcomes, ensuring a comprehensive and unified response to complex health challenges. We hope that other health leaders duplicate the DMR framework for infectious disease surveillance as we all continue to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and other emerging threats.

  1. https://www.cdc.gov/nwss/wastewater-surveillance.html#:~:text=Wastewater%20surveillance%20captures%20presence%20of,or%20decreasing%20in%20a%20sewershed
Categories Blog Tags Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Food Safety During Floods or Power Outages

Food Safety During Floods or Power Outages

By Editorial Staff

“Food safety involves everybody in the food chain.” – Mike Johanns [1]Brainy Quote. (2023). Mike Johanns quotes. https://www.brainyquote.com/authors/mike-johanns-quotes

 

Summer is almost over but there’s still time to gather outdoors for cookouts with friends and family, enjoying delicious food and other fun activities. All too often, though, summer rains can quickly dampen the excitement. Pop-up thunderstorms and torrential rains can quickly lead to a flooding catastrophe, especially for those living in low-lying areas or other places with a greater risk of flooding [2]Federal Emergency Management Agency. (n.d.). Flood. https://community.fema.gov/ProtectiveActions/s/article/Flood. In case of floods or power outages, make sure you and your household understand and practice food safety guidelines and procedures.

Preparation is key to keeping foods safe in the event of an emergency or power outage. Some of the steps you can take before one happens include:

However, sudden storms or power outages are not uncommon. In the event of a power outage, make sure to do the following:

  • Keep the fridge and freezer doors closed to keep the cold air inside. Most food items can last up to four hours if you avoid opening the door.

After a power outage, make sure to do the following:

  • Check the temperature of foods and throw out food that is above 40°F. Cook or refreeze any food that is 40°F or lower.
  • Throw away perishable food (e.g., meat, fish, dairy, and leftovers) if the power has been out for more than four hours or was in contact with flood waters. Don’t taste the food to see if it’s safe to eat. Just throw it away.

By following these food safety practices for power outages, including preparation, actions during the outage, and after power is restored, you can significantly reduce the chances of you or your loved ones developing a foodborne illness.

In addition to the guidelines above, here are further resources to help you prepare your food for an emergency.

References:

[1] Brainy Quote. (2023). Mike Johanns quotes. https://www.brainyquote.com/authors/mike-johanns-quotes
[2] Federal Emergency Management Agency. (n.d.). Flood. https://community.fema.gov/ProtectiveActions/s/article/Flood
[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, October 27). Food Safety for Power Outages. https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/food-safety-during-a-power-outage.html

Categories Blog Tags Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Health

Taking Charge: A Guide to Men’s Health Awareness

Taking Charge: A Guide to Men’s Health Awareness

 

By Bizzell Editorial Staff 

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2018, the leading causes of death for men of all races and ages were heart disease (24.3%), cancer (21.6%), and unintentional injuries (7.4%) [1]Heron M. Deaths: Leading causes for 2018. National Vital Statistics Reports; vol 70 no 4. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. 2021. DOI: https://doi.org/10.15620/cdc:104186. While men comprise about 50% of the US population, they account for nearly 80% of suicides. In 2021, men had a suicide rate nearly four times higher than that of women [2]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, May 11). Suicide Data and Statistics. https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/suicide-data-statistics.html. 

June is observed as Men’s Health Month, a reminder that taking care of oneself is essential and that neglecting one’s health can lead to severe consequences. Men’s health issues have been a topic of concern for many years, and the month of June provides an opportunity to bring more awareness to them. 

Created in 1992 by the Men’s Health Network, Men’s Health Month encourages men to take charge of their health by making healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting regular checkups. 

Why is Men’s Health Month important? 

According to a Harvard Medical School publication, men are more likely to die prematurely than women, and they are more likely to die from preventable causes. Men are also more likely to smoke, drink alcohol excessively, and be overweight or obese. It is crucial to spread awareness and provide resources to help men stay healthy. This June, let us encourage all men to take charge of their health and make positive changes in their lives. 

What can you do to celebrate Men’s Health Month? 

There are many things you can do to recognize Men’s Health Month. Here are a few ideas: 

  • Get a checkup. This is one of the most important things that men can do for their health. A regular checkup can help identify any health problems early on when they are most treatable. Check out these six routines screenings that all men should get. 
  • Talk to your doctor about your risk factors. Your doctor can help you understand your individual risk for certain health problems, such as heart disease, cancer, and stroke. They can also recommend ways to reduce your risk. 
  • Break the stigma around mental health. Men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health problems. It is essential to know the warning signs, break the stigma around mental health, and encourage men to seek help if they are struggling. 
  • Make healthy lifestyle changes. There are many measures that men can take to improve their health, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. 

Bizzell is committed to improving men’s health, through its work with the CDC Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, Public Health Professional Support Services at the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Bizzell supports the CDC’s Interactive Atlas of Heart Disease and Stroke production, which is published twice annually. This atlas shows data at the state and county levels concerning heart disease and stroke morbidity, mortality, access to care, risk factors, and risk reduction programs and policies. 

Bizzell continues to provide statistical analysis support to the CDC relating to heart disease, stroke prevention outcomes, and cardiovascular disease risk factors. In addition, Bizzell is conducting statistical analyses for use by members throughout the CDC that document both the burden of heart disease and stroke and the reach of existing programs and policies to reduce the burden of heart disease and stroke. 

This June serves as a reminder that taking proactive steps toward your health can lead to a life of vitality, happiness, and fulfillment. Together, let us continue to support and uplift one another on the journey to optimal health and well-being. 

 

[1] Heron M. Deaths: Leading causes for 2018. National Vital Statistics Reports; vol 70 no 4. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. 2021. DOI: https://doi.org/10.15620/cdc:104186  

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, May 11). Suicide Data and Statistics. https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/suicide-data-statistics.html 

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