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American College of Surgeons Enhances Patient Care with New Data Strategy

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) has fortified its position as a leader in utilizing clinical data to drive improvements in surgical patient care by implementing an innovative clinical data strategy. At the forefront of this initiative is a partnership with Epic, aiming to streamline data collection processes and enhance the application of this data to foster quality improvement in the surgical field.

A Landmark Collaboration

The collaboration with Epic's Community Registries Platform marks the initial phase of a multiyear project that will extend to several technology partners. This innovative approach is expected to significantly simplify the mechanisms through which hospitals collect and utilize patient data. Given that the ACS National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) has already laid the groundwork for quality enhancements in surgery for the past 20 years, this new initiative is geared towards modernizing and expanding existing methodologies.

"Our ACS Surgical Quality Partner hospitals understand that robust data is fundamental for continuous improvement. Minimizing the challenges associated with data collection will amplify the impact of our quality improvement programs," remarked Dr. Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA, FACS, the Executive Director and CEO of the ACS.

The integration of the Community Registries Platform into existing hospital systems is anticipated to automate data capture, allowing for seamless and reliable collection of clinical data. Over the upcoming year, this integration will not only encompass the NSQIP but also the ACS NSQIP Pediatric registry and the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program registry. Future expansions are expected to include additional programs that could further enhance clinical practices across the board.

Advancing Surgical Insights

As health systems adopt the Epic Community Registries, they will find it easier to participate in ACS programs and share insights with peers. Phil Lindemann, Vice President of Data and Research at Epic, emphasized the transformative potential of this partnership: "With the ACS moving to Epic Community Registries, it'll be easier for health systems to participate — and for surgeons to share insights and learn from each other."

The overarching goal of ACS's Quality Programs is to empower hospitals to utilize their resources more effectively and efficiently while striving to improve the quality of patient care. Dr. Clifford Y. Ko, MD, MS, MSHS, FACS, Senior Vice President of the ACS Division of Research and Optimal Patient Care, highlighted the vital importance of clinical data in achieving these objectives. "Hospitals have expressed a clear need for advanced technology that not only reduces data collection burdens but also makes critical information available in real time. We’re excited to partner with Epic, helping healthcare facilities offer the highest quality care for their patients."

Legacy of the American College of Surgeons

Founded in 1913, the ACS is a prominent scientific and educational organization representing surgeons and dedicated to enhancing surgical practices and patient care quality. The organization has played a pivotal role in the evolution of surgical guidance in America and continues to advocate for surgical patients globally. With roughly 90,000 members, it stands as the largest global surgical organization, promoting the ethical and competent practice of surgery.

In conclusion, the ACS's new clinical data strategy is poised to redefine how surgical care is delivered by facilitating improved data practices and fostering an era of collaboration and innovation among healthcare providers. This significant step forward underscores a commitment to not just keeping pace with advancements but leading the charge in enhancing surgical outcomes for patients worldwide.