Welcome to Season 2 of ProspHire’s Soaring to New Health podcast. In this episode, Star Quality Healthcare, we dive deep into the world of healthcare analytics and quality improvement with our special guests, Ally Thomas, PhD., AVP of Quality Improvement at UPMC Health Plan and Rebecca Yarish, ProspHire Rising Medicare Stars performance expert.
A Journey of Innovation and Insight
Ally Thomas shares her journey, transitioning from academia to the dynamic world of healthcare analytics at UPMC Health Plan. Drawing from her background in research psychology, Ally found her passion in applying analytical skills to solve real-world business challenges, particularly in the realm of Medicare Stars. She emphasizes the crucial role of analytics in monitoring performance, strategic planning and driving impactful decision-making.
The Power of Analytics in Healthcare
Analytics isn’t just about crunching numbers; it’s about strategically leveraging data to improve outcomes. Ally discusses the foundational pillars of analytics at UPMC Health Plan, emphasizing the importance of scenario-based planning and continuous monitoring. By harnessing data-driven insights, UPMC Health Plan can proactively adapt to changes in the healthcare landscape and ensure quality care for its members.
Navigating Change and Prioritizing Innovation
With healthcare regulations constantly evolving, Rebecca Yarish highlights the importance of staying ahead of the curve. She emphasizes the need for continuous gap closure and forward-thinking strategies, especially in anticipation of upcoming changes like the Health Equity Index and the transition to digital quality measurement. By embracing innovation and focusing on member preferences, healthcare organizations can better serve their communities and drive meaningful improvements in care delivery.
Building Strong Partnerships for Quality Care
At the heart of quality healthcare are strong partnerships between health plans, providers and members. Ally and Rebecca emphasize the importance of collaboration and communication, whether it’s working closely with healthcare concierge teams or supporting smaller provider practices. By building meaningful relationships and understanding the unique needs of each stakeholder, UPMC Health Plan is able to deliver personalized, high-quality care to its members.
As we navigate the complexities of the healthcare landscape, one thing remains clear: innovation and collaboration are key to unlocking quality healthcare for all. By harnessing the power on analytics, embracing change and prioritizing member preferences, organizations like UPMC Health Plan are paving the way for a brighter, healthier future.
Thank you for tuning into this episode of ProspHire’s Soaring the New Health podcast. Stay tuned for more insights and inspiration as we continue to explore the ever-evolving world of healthcare. For the more in-depth discussion on Stars Performance Improvement download the Soaring to New Health podcast, Star Quality Healthcare, where you find your podcasts.
