Guide for developing an information technology investment road map for population health management

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Healthcare Management
• Information Technology in Healthcare

Background:

• Healthcare systems are evolving from electronic health record (EHR) investments towards accountable care organizations (ACOs).
• ACO maturation requires new partnerships, data sources, information technology (IT) solutions, and a shift in care management perspective.
• The market presents numerous population health management (PHM) vendors with overlapping functionalities, causing confusion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose an organized, strategic approach for health systems investing in population health management (PHM) IT solutions.
• To guide organizations in navigating the complexities of PHM IT procurement and implementation.
• To facilitate the transition from volume-based to value-based care models.

Main Methods:

• Assessing organizational business and clinical goals.
• Establishing governance structures and agreeing on business requirements.
• Evaluating current IT capabilities, setting timelines and budgets, and rationalizing needs.
• Implementing new systems within a continuously learning organizational framework.

Main Results:

• Provides a structured framework for PHM IT investment decisions.
• Enables organizations to assess their population health readiness.
• Enhances the likelihood of a successful transition to value-based care.

Conclusions:

• A systematic approach to PHM IT investment is crucial for ACO success.
• Strategic planning and organizational learning are key to navigating PHM IT adoption.
• Effective PHM IT implementation supports the shift to value-based care.