Master Data Governance: Insights from UNC Health

0
36
HIMSSCast: Fundamentals of data governance - lessons from UNC Health, part 1

UNC Health’s Analytics Journey: Redefining Data Governance for Enhanced Care Delivery

Harnessing Data for Better Healthcare

For over a decade, UNC Health has embarked on a dedicated initiative to fully leverage its extensive repositories of clinical, financial, and operational data. The goal? To pave the way for higher-quality and more efficient care delivery across its network. This commitment reflects the organization’s forward-thinking approach to modern healthcare, where the optimal use of data is paramount.

A New Era of Data Governance

In a recent episode of HIMSSCast, Greg Kuhnen, the System Director for Analytical Solutions at UNC Health, discussed pivotal aspects of effective data management. One surprising piece of advice he shared is to avoid the term "data governance." This unconventional stance opens the door to a broader discussion about how healthcare systems can better manage their data assets and create impactful change in care delivery.

The Foundations of a Successful Analytics Program

Kuhnen emphasized that people, processes, and technology are crucial components for developing an analytics program that can scale effectively across the enterprise. In his view, understanding the interplay between these elements is key to establishing a robust foundation for any analytics strategy.

Learning from HIMSS Analytics

Years of collaboration with HIMSS Analytics have been instrumental for UNC Health. Initially engaging with the Adoption Model for Analytics Maturity, the organization has recently adopted the updated, outcomes-focused Analytics Maturity Assessment Model. This partnership has significantly influenced UNC Health’s advancements in data use for improving patient care.

The Importance of Data Management and Analytics

One of the focal points in Kuhnen’s discussion was the critical role that data management and analytics play in healthcare. Properly harnessing these elements not only enhances operational efficiency but also fosters better patient outcomes. Organizations must see data management as a strategic investment rather than an administrative task.

Identifying Key IT Systems and Leadership Roles

Successful implementation of data strategies relies heavily on understanding which IT systems are essential and identifying the leadership roles that facilitate progress. Effective data leadership is vital for navigating the complexities of a healthcare organization, allowing teams to capitalize on their analytics capabilities.

Balancing Centralized and Decentralized Models

Kuhnen proposed a hybrid model that encompasses both centralized and decentralized approaches to data governance. This flexibility allows healthcare organizations to tailor their strategies to specific use cases, achieving better results by addressing varied departmental needs while maintaining overarching guidelines.

Developing New Data Management Policies

A salient topic during the podcast was the development and dissemination of new data management policies across the enterprise. For an organization like UNC Health, ensuring that all departments align with the latest best practices is critical for maximizing the benefits of its extensive data sets.

Strategic Advice for Health Systems

Kuhnen provided actionable insights to health systems looking to refine their data management efforts. Focusing on cross-departmental collaboration and investing in training and education can significantly improve an organization’s data maturity. As a result, better data practices lead to enhanced patient care and streamlined operations.

Utilizing HIMSS Analytics Models as Enablers

The HIMSS Analytics adoption models serve as a key enabler for organizations aspiring to enhance their analytics capabilities. These frameworks provide structured methodologies that can guide healthcare systems on their data journey, helping them realize measurable improvements over time.

Reaching Peak Analytics Maturity

Recently, UNC Health celebrated a significant milestone by achieving Stage 7 in analytics maturity, marked by advanced electronic medical record (EMR) and analytics capabilities. This achievement underscores the organization’s commitment to continual improvement and its proactive stance toward technology adoption.

Exploring Generative AI Applications

The conversation also touched upon UNC Health’s collaboration with Epic and Microsoft on deploying generative AI technologies. This partnership aims to enhance decision-making processes and improve clinical outcomes through data-driven insights, highlighting the importance of innovation in healthcare.

Responsible AI Governance

As advancements in artificial intelligence continue to reshape the healthcare landscape, the need for responsible AI governance becomes critical. UNC Health’s chief analytics officer emphasized the necessity of creating frameworks that ensure ethical and effective AI use within healthcare systems.

Preparing for Future Innovations

Looking ahead, UNC Health is poised to adapt to the rapidly changing healthcare environment, including the upcoming renovations to the Adoption Model for Analytics Maturity at HIMSS24 APAC. By staying current with the latest advancements, the organization ensures that it can implement smart AI deployments effectively.

Conclusion: A Roadmap to Data Excellence

UNC Health’s ongoing efforts to streamline its analytics capabilities serve as an inspiring model for healthcare organizations everywhere. Through a strategic focus on data management, innovative technology use, and robust leadership, UNC is setting a benchmark for data-driven healthcare. As organizations continue to navigate the complexities of modern healthcare, the emphasis on effective analytics programs will undoubtedly shape the future of care delivery.

source