Continuing Clinical Excellence at Grand Itasca

At UCare's 16th annual "Salute to Excellence!" award ceremony, Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital was honored with the 2024 Excellence in Health Care Award for Overall Performance Quality of Care. This event celebrated the outstanding achievements of 23 Minnesota clinics and care systems. UCare highlighted top results in the 2023 Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) measures. Some of the measurements include:

• preventive care
• disease management
• behavioral health 
• maternity care
• care transitions
• medication management

What exactly is HEDIS?

The Health Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) is a set of standardized performance measures managed by the National Committee for Quality Assurance to evaluate insured patients' quality of care and services. 

As of today, over 90 percent of U.S. health plans participate in HEDIS reviews by submitting medical records, administrative data, and other supplemental information.

Why do HEDIS values matter? 

Scoring high on HEDIS measures requires measurement and transparency, two essential components of delivering safe, high-quality patient care. Data collection and chart abstractions are complicated; however, they are necessary to promote accountable care.

In the critical position of Quality and Training Coordinator at Grand Itasca clinic, Britney Stewart, RN, is integral to delivering exceptional HEDIS values. Stewart assumes responsibility for upholding continuous quality improvement principles, ensuring our patients receive the highest standard of service and care throughout the clinic at Grand Itasca. Her responsibilities involve collaborating with providers to update medical records and meticulously reviewing records to close care gaps.

Closing Gaps in Care

A gap in care is the discrepancy between recommended best practices and the care provided in the clinic. For example, a person is overdue for a recommended screening – like an annual mammogram, colonoscopy, or well visit – based on their age or other risk factors.

Stewart communicates closely with our clinic staff to update health records and examines data abstracted from medical records to identify possible care gaps. Working closely with physicians and actionable data allows Stewart to educate staff and can aid in closing gaps in care.

Our Commitment to Quality Improvement

The main objective of HEDIS is to enhance preventive care. Improved preventive care programs reduce the need for extra doctor visits, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care during their regularly scheduled appointments with their health care provider. With the help of the rest of the clinic staff, Stewart plans to preserve the progress made so far and uncover new strategies and opportunities to enhance the health of Grand Itasca's patients.

Receiving the Overall Performance Quality of Care in 2024 is a source of immense pride for Grand Itasca. This accolade symbolizes our commitment to delivering outstanding health care services and a collective commitment to excellence. The dedication of our talented staff truly epitomizes our ongoing commitment to shaping a healthier future for the Grand Itasca community.