309320
Electronic Medical Record Modifications to Target Hepatitis C Testing Among Baby Boomers
Issue/Method: In 2012 the CDC updated the HCV testing recommendations to target baby boomers born between 1945 and 1965. We implemented the recommendations at five FQHCs in Philadelphia. Of the total patients, 37% fall within that birth year range. To make the project successful, we modified the EMR. They include: (1) automatic reminders that flag baby boomer patients and services available; (2) linking HCV lab results to flow-sheets to easily see that a person was tested; (3) weekly reports to track and disseminate progress; (4) monthly data reports uploaded to the CDC; (5) addition of an account for HCV labs on uninsured patients to simplify reimbursement.
Results: October 2012 through December 2013, 1080 (44.3%) of the 2438 tested were baby boomers; baby boomers have a 14.2% HCV seroprevalence compared to 8.3% overall seropositivity; baby boomers comprised 74% of the cases of HCV; 90.3% were RNA tested. 66.1% were chronic. Of those: 39% were homeless and 25% were IDUs. Most baby boomer HCV-antibody positives were: men (76%); African Americans (71%); and reported drug use (64.9%); 39.1% had injected drugs.
Conclusion: EMR modifications successfully ensure appropriate care to baby boomer patients. Baby boomers have a higher seroprevalence of HCV than overall seroprevalence and account most of the total cases of HCV. African Americans and men are more affected than others. Rates of chronic infection in IDUs were lower compared to other subgroups.
Learning Areas:
Clinical medicine applied in public healthConduct evaluation related to programs, research, and other areas of practice
Program planning
Protection of the public in relation to communicable diseases including prevention or control
Learning Objectives:
Evaluate the need for HCV testing among baby boomers
Design EMR modifications to prompt and facilitate care targeting baby boomers
Keyword(s): Hepatitis C, Information Technology
Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am qualified because I manage this project. I worked closely with the HIT Director and clinic staff to develop EMR modifications that facilitate the project's success. I also used EMR modifications to implement other preventative screenings and reminders for tailored care. I monitor, track and clean data; upload monthly data reports to funders and share with evaluators. My areas of interest are modifying the EMR to improve quality of care and unburden providers.
Any relevant financial relationships? No
I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.