Editor’s Note: This week I am limiting the number of posts for News You Can Use as each of these reports are lengthy and will take some time to review. Each report is important to the practice of case management and I urge you to review and share the information within your individual organizations. I would also be interested if you have any feedback about these reports and how your organization is addressing these important topics. Email me at allewellyn@dorlandhealth.com.

HIMSS releases 2007 Leadership Survey

Information Systems are essential tools case managers utilize to manage their caseloads and validate their value as part of the healthcare system. Last week the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) released the results of its leadership survey which was given to 260 healthcare IT leaders. To learn about the trends, opportunities and barriers related to the information technology movement, I would encourage you to read the survey and share with your organization. 2007 HIMSS Leadership Survey [PDF]

Mathematica releases Study on Care Coordination in Medicare Patient

Case managers may want to review this report to learn some of the opportunities and challenges that exist in the care coordination industry. The Evaluation of the Medicare Coordinated Care Demonstration: Findings for the First Two Years [PDF]

WebMD/ViPS Release Making Physicians Performance Actionable: Industry, Employers and Physician Perspectives

Case managers will want to listen to this web seminar sponsored by WebMD and ViPS as they will play an important role as the Pay 4 Performance movement moves forward. WebMD/ViPS

AHIP proposes plan to improve quality in today’s healthcare system

America’s Health Insurance Plans’ board of directors has proposed a plan to improve the quality of healthcare in the U.S. The proposal includes the establishment of a new body to compare the safety and efficacy of new drugs versus older treatments. AHIP says the new entity could be funded with private and public resources and would work independently of the drug industry in conducting real-world drug studies. AHIP (Press Release)

Once there, you can also read the PDF of a report entitled “Setting A Higher Bar: We Believe There is More The Nation Can Do To Improve Quality and Safety in Healthcare.” (Click on AHIP’s Quality and Safety Proposal [PDF].)