Hackensack Meridian Health and DrFirst Innovate Medication Workflow with AI Integration
Enhancing Medication Workflow: Hackensack Meridian Health and DrFirst Collaboration
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, the integration of technology stands as a beacons of hope for improving patient outcomes and clinical efficiencies. Recently, Hackensack Meridian Health, the largest health network in New Jersey, forged a partnership with DrFirst, a leader in healthcare technology, to enhance medication workflows through the power of artificial intelligence (AI).
The essence of this collaboration is centered around simplifying the medication prescribing process for both clinicians and patients. With the use of AI, this partnership aims to ensure that patients not only receive the correct medication but also understand the proper usage of their prescriptions, a crucial part of their treatment regime.
A Shift from Manual to Automated Processes
Traditionally, clinicians faced significant challenges when updating medication histories due to cumbersome manual data entry processes. Prior to this partnership, only 26% of prescription instructions, referred to as sigs, were automatically populated into the electronic health record (EHR) system, resulting in healthcare professionals spending excessive time on clerical duties instead of patient care. However, following the integration of DrFirst's clinical-grade AI tools, that percentage has soared to 86%, a remarkable increase demonstrated in a recent analysis of 300,000 medications.
Robert C. Garrett, the CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health, emphasized that the goal isn't merely to adopt technology for its sake but to streamline processes that benefit patients directly. He states, "It’s about simplifying things for our medical teams so they can focus on what matters most – the patient."
Key Features of the New AI Tools
1. Data Optimization: With DrFirst’s clinical-grade AI, medication data is now comprehensive and readily accessible, eliminating the need for manual entry in clinical workflows. Consequently, this minimizes the risk of adverse medication events and enhances the reliability of data at the point-of-care.
2. Prescription Price Transparency: The partnership has enabled healthcare providers to access real-time prescription benefit (RTPB) data, which is vital for discussing financial aspects and preventing medication abandonment. Physicians can provide patients with cost-effective alternatives before prescriptions reach the pharmacy.
3. Automated Patient Messaging: Automated messages, detailing medication information, pharmacy contacts, educational resources, and savings opportunities, are delivered securely without requiring patients to download an app. This feature aims to keep patients informed and engaged in their treatment.
A Commitment to Healthcare Innovation
Hackensack Meridian Health's collaboration with DrFirst is a testament to the growing emphasis on utilizing AI and machine learning in healthcare. This initiative not only tackles inefficiencies in clinical workflows but also aims to personalize patient care while alleviating administrative burdens that contribute to clinician burnout. G. Cameron Deemer, CEO of DrFirst, pointed out that healthcare systems often view innovation as a future project rather than a current necessity. He commended Hackensack Meridian Health for its proactive approach to technology adoption.
Future Advancements
With an extensive network of 18 hospitals and over 500 patient care locations, Hackensack Meridian Health's commitment to innovation is pivotal in transforming healthcare delivery in New Jersey. As AI technology continues to evolve, the collaboration with DrFirst positions the health system as a leader in adopting practical advancements that cater to patient needs effectively. The initiative is a part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing clinical outcomes, patient engagement, and operational efficiencies across healthcare services.
In conclusion, the partnership between Hackensack Meridian Health and DrFirst marks a significant milestone in the quest for safer and more efficient healthcare delivery. By leveraging innovative technology, they are setting a standard for others to follow in the healthcare industry.