A new Web resource that allows users to learn, share and adopt innovations in the delivery of healthcare services is expected to help hospitals save money in the education process of best practices - not to mention the long-term savings derived from having the information.
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has launched the Health Care Innovations Exchange, the federal government's repository for successful health care innovations. The Web site is considered a tool for healthcare leaders, physicians, nurses and other health professionals who seek to reduce health care disparities and improve healthcare overall.
"Sharing information about important new developments in methods of delivering effective health care is typically a hit-or-miss process," said AHRQ Director Carolyn M. Clancy, MD. "Such information exchanges often occur only within organizations, through conferences and by chance over the Internet. AHRQ's updated innovations exchange will encourage information sharing, reduce duplication and save time and money."
The Web site will include 100 examples of innovations in the delivery of healthcare services and attempts at innovation; that number is expected to increase as the site is updated every two weeks.
Profile examples include an intensive care unit's success in shortening patient stays by setting and adhering to daily care goals; an initiative by geriatricians, nurse practitioners and social workers to help seniors avoid institutional care by visiting seniors at home; and a patient/physician e-mail communication system that overcomes the inconvenience of automated phone systems and accommodates the difficult schedules of both the physician and the patient.
At the Health Care Innovations Exchange, users can:
• read articles and perspectives on innovation;
• read commentaries on specific innovations;
• comment on specific innovations;
• participate in topic-specific presentations (e.g., Webinars) and discussions; and
• join online forums that connect innovators with organizations that adopt them.
According to the AHRQ, the site will also house QualityTools, a listing of tools used in quality improvement efforts.