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Published on: September 27, 2019
Demonstrating the benefits of a multidisciplinary aerodigestive program
Amanda G Ruiz1, Jay M Bhatt1, Emily M DeBoer2
1Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, U.S.A.
The Aerodigestive Program (Aero Program) offers cost-effective, coordinated care for complex pediatric airway, digestive, and lung disorders. This multidisciplinary approach significantly reduces procedure times and costs while improving parent satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric gastroenterology
- Pediatric pulmonology
- Healthcare administration
Background:
- Multidisciplinary aerodigestive programs are increasing to improve care coordination and family satisfaction for children with complex conditions.
- Data on the cost-effectiveness and patient satisfaction of these resource-intensive programs are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the value of combined triple endoscopy within the Aerodigestive Program (Aero Program).
- To analyze institutional charges, direct costs, operating room efficiency, and parent satisfaction for the Aero Program's approach.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of electronic health records and administrative databases.
- Evaluation of financial metrics (charges, direct costs) and operating room efficiency.
- Assessment of parent satisfaction through surveys.
Main Results:
- Combined triple endoscopy in the Aero Program had a mean anesthesia time of 54 minutes, significantly less than separate procedures (89 minutes).
- Average charges and direct costs were 38.8% and 41.9% lower, respectively, for combined procedures.
- High levels of parent satisfaction were reported for care received through the Aero Program.
Conclusions:
- Multidisciplinary aerodigestive programs can demonstrate value by delivering cost-effective and satisfying care.
- These programs align with the trend toward coordinated care for complex pediatric patients.
- Aerodigestive programs represent a move towards higher value care and value-based payment models.
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