Researchers with the Atlas Project will investigate geographic variation in pediatric healthcare in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont using data from commercial insurers and Medicaid. Based upon this research, they plan to report rates of utilization and spending for primary care, inpatient care, emergency room care, advanced imaging, surgical care and medication use across regions and hospitals.
Previous Dartmouth research of healthcare variation in adults has shown that most differences cannot be explained by patient needs or preferences but by variation in how physicians and hospitals practice medicine. This new project on variation in the care of infants and children will build upon this research to see if pediatric care differs from what is known about adult care.
Through a new partnership with Blue Health Intelligence, Dartmouth researchers also plan to release a second study this year on geographic variation in joint arthroplasty and knee arthroscopy in the commercially insured population over time.
Related Articles on Population Health:
Hospital Construction in Alaska Booms as Population Increases
Study Finds Ethnic, Racial Disparities in Cancer Screening Rates
Healthcare CEOs of the Round Table: Organizational Strategies for 2012
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.