U of U Health recognized as health technology leaders, says CHIME

By

Patrick Jones

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The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) recently released the Digital Health Most Wired survey to assess the effectiveness of health system’s application of core and advanced technologies into their clinical models. The University of Utah (U of U) Health received a “Level 9” out of 10 recognition in both acute and ambulatory care categories.

 

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The CHIME Digital Health Most Wired program’s aim is to “elevate health and care of communities around the world by encouraging the optimal use of information technology.” The annual survey by the program looks to identify and certify the proper usage and implementation of information technology (IT) by health care provider organizations. 

According to CHIME, the results are intended to improve patient outcomes and drive change in the health care IT industry. Russel P. Branzell, president and CEO of CHIME, said

Digital transformation in healthcare has accelerated to an unprecedented level since 2020, and the next few years will bring a wave of innovation that empowers healthcare consumers and will astound the industry. The Digital Health Most Wired program recognizes the outstanding digital leaders who have paved the way for this imminent revolution in healthcare.”

A total of 36,674 organizations participated in four surveys: acute, ambulatory, long-term care, and international care. Each organization received a benchmarking report detailing their scores for eight different segments: infrastructure, security, business/disaster recovery, administrative/supply chain, patient engagement, analytics/data management, interoperability/population health, and clinical quality/safety. 

The participating organizations can use these scores to identify their strengths and opportunities for improvement. 

Levels nine through ten in the survey are “often leaders in health care technology who actively push the industry forward.” According to CHIME, these leaders often deeply ingrain IT into their entire organization and provide meaningful outcomes, reduced costs, and broader patient access to services through their technology use as a result. Donna M. Roach, chief information officer for U of U Health, said:

“Being recognized as a leader in utilizing advanced digital technologies throughout our healthcare system speaks volumes about the innovative work our teams are committed to on a daily basis. It is validating to be included as part of this prestigious list of `most wired’ healthcare institutions.”

CHIME said some of these advanced technologies used in a level nine health system include telehealth solutions, price-transparency and cost-analysis tools, and access to data at the point of care. Branzell said:

“Their trailblazing commitment to rapid transformation has set an example for the entire industry in how to pursue a leadership vision with determination, brilliant planning, and courage to overcome all challenges.”