Information Sharing: Best Practices That Support Transitions in Care.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Health Informatics
• Patient Care

Background:

• Bundled payment programs necessitate enhanced care coordination.
• Focus is shifting from individual care aspects to the entire care continuum.
• Episodes of care can range from 30 to 90 days.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an organization's experience managing the full continuum of care.
• To highlight the importance of information sharing during care transitions.
• To emphasize the role of technology in care coordination.

Main Methods:

• Implementing a technology platform for real-time information sharing.
• Managing patient care across preoperative preparation through episode completion.
• Coordinating transitions between different care providers.

Main Results:

• Improved patient care through integrated management.
• Facilitation of seamless information exchange between providers.
• Successful navigation of multi-provider care episodes.

Conclusions:

• Technology platforms are crucial for effective care coordination in bundled payment models.
• Managing the full care continuum enhances patient outcomes.
• Real-time information sharing is vital for successful care transitions.