Asthma Management at Evans Army Community Hospital: Using Clinical Practice Guidelines to Improve Outcomes
Abstract
During fiscal years 2003 and 2004, Evans Army Community Hospital (EACH), Fort Carson, Colorado, spent almost $1 million on asthma-related emergency department visits and hospital admissions for enrolled beneficiaries. As part of EACH's attempt to improve the quality of care for enrolled beneficiaries, this study provides a retrospective analysis and recommendations for improving compliance with Department of Defense Asthma Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs). The results of this study are based on a sample of the EACH enrolled asthma population over the age of 6 years (N = 1,887, n = 316, alpha = .05) and indicate an opportunity to reduce the number of asthma emergency department visits by over 50 percent, and asthma hospital admissions by up to 100 percent. By reducing the number of emergency department visits and hospital admissions, EACH can potentially save $411,162 annually in direct and purchased care costs attributed to asthma. Recommendations derived from the analysis are for EACH to implement asthma CPGs; educate providers; implement an asthma management flow-sheet; establish protocols, policies, and monitoring mechanisms; and use pay-for-performance provider contracts. Engaging in the proposed recommendations will improve EACH's ability to provide the highest quality health care to all enrolled beneficiaries diagnosed with asthma.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 26, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA443961
Entities
People
- Christopher G. Lindner