BUS FPX 4123 Assessment 2 Data Assessment in Organizations

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Capella University

BUS-FPX4123 Quality Assurance and Risk Management

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Date

Introduction

In healthcare, patients are the central focus, and providing high-quality care consistently is essential for improving health outcomes. Research plays a pivotal role in advancing healthcare practices, and translating research findings into actionable changes can significantly enhance patient care. The Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) is a key resource that helps evaluate various aspects of healthcare services. Among the many HEDIS measures, Adult BMI Assessment stands out as a crucial tool for assessing health risks related to weight and obesity. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the importance of BMI assessment and its role in managing obesity, a significant public health challenge. Reducing obesity rates not only improves individual health outcomes but also has broader implications for healthcare systems, emphasizing the need for effective interventions.

HEDIS Measures of Care

The Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) is a widely used set of performance measures developed by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). HEDIS is employed by most Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) to evaluate the effectiveness of care and services provided to patients. These measures cover a broad spectrum of health issues, including the management of chronic conditions such as hypertension and asthma, the use of appropriate medications, cancer screenings, and preventive services like weight management. The data collected from these measures are used to assess the quality of care provided by health plans, enabling comparisons across different organizations. By providing evidence-based insights, HEDIS helps healthcare providers improve patient care while addressing critical health issues, including obesity (NCQA, 2013).

Adult BMI Assessment

Obesity is a leading cause of preventable death in the United States, contributing to a wide range of health complications, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a key tool for identifying individuals who are overweight or obese. It is calculated using a person’s weight and height to assess the risk of developing weight-related health issues. The Adult BMI Assessment measure, part of HEDIS, evaluates whether adults have had their BMI measured within the past two years. This measure aims to identify individuals at risk for obesity and its associated complications, allowing healthcare providers to implement preventive strategies (NCQA, 2013). The prevalence of obesity in the U.S. is concerning, with over two-thirds of adults being classified as overweight or obese. Effective interventions, including behavioral counseling and promoting physical activity, are critical for reducing the impact of obesity. However, many adults fail to meet physical activity recommendations, exacerbating the obesity epidemic (NCQA, 2013).

Expectations

The implementation of the Adult BMI Assessment measure is vital for addressing the obesity epidemic. Projections indicate that obesity rates will continue to rise through 2030, which could lead to significant economic and public health challenges. However, even modest weight loss can lead to significant improvements in health, including reductions in blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Regular monitoring of BMI enables healthcare providers to identify at-risk individuals and offer targeted interventions, such as counseling and lifestyle modifications, to help manage weight and prevent obesity-related health problems (NCQA, 2013). By prioritizing BMI assessment and management, healthcare systems can mitigate the growing burden of obesity on public health.

Summary and Conclusion

Reducing obesity rates through initiatives like the Adult BMI Assessment measure is crucial for improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. Obesity is the most preventable cause of death, and addressing this issue through systematic screening and interventions can lead to better health and significant cost savings. Healthcare organizations must prioritize obesity prevention and management as part of their efforts to improve population health. By implementing measures that assess BMI and provide appropriate interventions, healthcare systems can better manage obesity and its associated risks, ultimately enhancing patient well-being and reducing healthcare expenditures.

References

Arterburn, D. E., Alexander, G. L., Calvi, J., Coleman, L. A., Gillman, M. W., Novotny, R., … Sherwood, N. E. (2010). Body mass index measurement and obesity prevalence in ten U.S. health plans. Clinical Medicine & Research, 8(3-4), 126–130. https://doi.org/10.3121/cmr.2010.880

Dietz, W. H., Benken, D. E., & Hunter, A. S. (2009). Public health law and the prevention and control of obesity. The Milbank Quarterly, 87(1), 215–227. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-0009.2009.00553.x