| Title | The Pediatrix BabySteps Data Warehouse and the Pediatrix QualitySteps Improvement Project System—Tools for ‘‘Meaningful Use’’ in Continuous Quality Improvement |
| Author(s) | Spitzer AR, Ellsbury DL, Handler D, Clark RH |
| Source | Clinics in Perinatology, Vol. 37, Pages 49-70 |
| DOI | doi:10.1016/j.clp.2010.01.016 |
| Publisher | Elsevier |
| Publication Date | 2010 |
| Abstract | In 1996, Pediatrix Medical Group initiated development of a proprietary EHR
throughout its practices. Several goals were associated with this project. First, the
EHR was intended to create a clear, easily-readable admission, discharge, and daily
medical record note that was consistent throughout the expanding number of neonatal
practices within the organization (now numbering approximately 200 in 33 states plus
Puerto Rico). The Pediatrix BabySteps CDW is a rich and novel tool allowing unbiased extraction of information from an entire neonatal population care by physicians and advanced practice nurses in Pediatrix Medical Group. Because it represents the practice of newborn medicine ranging from small community intensive care units to some of the largest NICUs in the United States, it is highly representative of scope of practice in this country. Its value in defining outcome measures, quality improvement projects, and research continues to grow annually. Now coupled with the BabySteps QualitySteps program for defined CQI projects, it represents a robust methodology for meaningful use of an EHR, as designated during this era of health care reform. Continued growth of the CDW should result in continued important observations and improvements in neonatal care. |