Topic 6 DQ 2
Hospitals and health systems have been pursuing a range of information systems with an aim to capture large data. The systems comprise of databases where varying information can be obtained. Large aggregated databases can be used in various ways when improving population health. Population health management comprises of aggregation of patient data from various health information technology resources, analysis of the collected data and using the analyzed information to make informed decisions. Big data in healthcare is important as it guides rational decision making which will improve the outcome of patients in a population and control costs. Aggregated databases are essential in improving population health because they aid in researching and use of evidence-based practice when deciding best care for the population. Analysis of information from these databases guarantees benefits at various levels of care in a population due to the informed decisions made from the information.
Large aggregated databases also save on time for research about a certain population. The data from those databases shorten the time between research and implementation making it easier for program managers to implement a program in a population for improving population health. The use of databases provides evidence for quality care and interventions that should be implemented in a population to improve their health. When the databases capture information about a health program initiated in a community, the information from the databases can be used to decide how well the indicators of the program were met. The databases can also be used to provide previous literature about a program or an event that should be implemented in a community to improve population health.