Technology and Innovation

Using AI to Improve Chronic Disease Outcomes
Francis R. Colangelo, M.D., M.S.-HQS, FACP, Chief Quality Officer, Premier Medical Associates, P.C.; and Robert E. Matthews, Vice President for Quality, PriMed Physicians, President and Chief Executive Officer, MediSync

Medical group leaders often target improved chronic disease outcomes in their quest for value-based reimbursement, but underestimate the level of complexity facing providers in selecting optimal medications for their patients. In this session, leaders from two medical groups—Premier Medical Associates and PriMed Physicians—will demonstrate how artificial intelligence (AI) can identify optimal medications and significantly improve outcomes. Learn how these medical groups, both with strong chronic disease outcomes, use AI decision support to help doctors and other providers improve patient care through a more precise method of prescribing medications.

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to:

• Describe the methods for a “root cause analysis” of the issues or challenges underlying achieving high levels of chronic disease success (i.e., achieving control per the evidence-based standard)
• Calculate a cost-benefit analysis for different methods of quality improvement in chronic disease care
• Develop new methods to support physician or provider success when treating chronic diseases

How to Build Technology-Enhanced Care Management Model to Scale Care Management to the Rising Risk, Increase Patient Engagement, and Reduce ED Visits
Mary Laubinger, Vice President of Population Health, Mercy

Value-based care requires a new vision and organizational model for scaling care management to engage and improve outcomes for rising-risk patients. In this session, hear how Missouri-based Mercy is using a care management model that relies on a unique combination of staff, technology, and automation to engage and monitor rising-risk patients in the community. With this structure, care managers can identify and focus resources on high-cost, rising-risk patients before they worsen or are hospitalized. Depart the session with an innovative blueprint for structuring care management teams and layering in appropriate technology to promote greater engagement and retention of patients.

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to:

• Describe the reasons for investing in a technology-enhanced care management model
• Explain the organizational structure that is needed to create a model that scales to engage and monitor more patients
• Identify the opportunity for enhanced clinical and financial outcomes
• Evaluate the model’s applicability to their organization