Master of Science in Healthcare Management and Informatics
Collaborative Research Engagements - Cohort 7
Public health informatics plays a pivotal role in transforming healthcare delivery and improving population health outcomes. The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) is a web-based system created and managed by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and utilized by both the CDC and healthcare facilities to monitor data, such as healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), antimicrobial use and resistance, and other healthcare events and processes. Although the data is readily available, it is usually in a raw format, which makes it difficult for organizations to analyze and draw conclusions. Diagnose Data, Inc. seeks to employ this informatics data in an interactive dashboard where users can visualize and make inferences on improving patient and procedure outcomes hospital-wide.
Students: Ann Johnson, Calise Hammonds, Bunmi Simpson
Faculty Advisor: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: Diagnose Data, Inc. – Dr. Mickey Bansal
This project delves into the intricate relationship between social determinants of health (SDOH) and their profound effects on individual and community well-being. Through an examination of various socioeconomic, environmental, and cultural factors, we elucidate how SDOH shape health outcomes and disparities at Northside Hospital for the first quarter of 2024. By analyzing access to healthcare, education, employment, housing, and social support systems, we unveil the multifaceted nature of SDOH and their significant implications for public health policy and practice. This comprehensive understanding underscores the urgent need to address and track SDOH to promote health equity and enhance overall population health.
Students: Denise Thomas, Elizabeth Vasquez
Faculty Advisor: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: Northside Hospital – Melissa Lamb, Elizabeth Cunningham
This project outlines the examination of mental and emotional health among adolescents and youth, emphasizing the critical role of mental well-being in their overall development. Survey data reveal significant effects of mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, on young people’s life quality, influencing their social interactions, behavior, academic interest, and decision-making processes. The COVID-19 pandemic has further intensified these issues, significantly impacting young people’s health. Research, including systematic reviews and cross-sectional surveys, has started to assess the psychological toll of COVID-19 on children and adolescents, showing shifts in lifestyle and health behavior risks as they move towards adulthood. The analysis also highlights the influence of behaviors like decreases in physical activity and healthy eating on their mental health. To tackle these issues, a broad range of solutions and collaborative efforts are necessary, aiming to foster environments that promote healthy growth and empower young people to make well-informed health decisions.
Students: Andre Derilus, Deborah Ojumu, Jordyn Fleming, Mariah Hubbard, Nathanial Blackmon IV, Kesjiah Wilcher
Faculty Advisors: Austin Brown, Ph.D., Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
In today’s digital landscape, the insurance industry is experiencing a substantial transformation propelled by technological progress. This research paper explores the implementation of digital communication strategies within an insurance provider’s framework, focusing on enhancing consumer experience and engagement. Leveraging a survey-based feedback approach, the study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of digital communication channels in meeting consumer needs and preferences.
Students: Angelica Lewis, Natasha Williams, Anita Ajuebor
Faculty Advisor: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: Elevance Health – Vinita Shrivastav, John Zotalis, and Ken Stark
Ambient listening AI applications are becoming increasingly commonplace in healthcare. Emory healthcare has taken the initiative to implement ambient listening AI through Abridge which has been described as “a healthcare company whose Generative AI solutions transform raw audio of doctor-patient conversations into first drafts of clinical notes, combating the leading cause of physician burnout.” As Emory Healthcare implements this novel technology, the full impact on physicians is yet to be fully realized. This project will identify if there is a correlation between the use of ambient AI, average note time and billing level. Physician perception post - Abridge implementation will be evaluated to identify whether the perceived performance of Abridge was helpful in decreasing physician workload and if physician perception matched with the abridge data analysis.
Students: Carter Hughes
Faculty Advisor: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: Emory Healthcare – Jason Atkins and Guru Patel
The Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP) Common Data Model (CDM) provides a standardized healthcare data organization and analysis framework, ensuring consistency and interoperability across various systems.It employs relational database tables representing patient information, treatments, and more, integrating terminologies from established coding systems like SNOMED CT and ICD-10. The adoption of OMOP CDM streamlines data integration, promotes collaboration, and supports large-scale observational studies, enhancing evidence-based decision-making in healthcare. Non-standardized data in healthcare organizations leads to challenges such as data fragmentation, interoperability issues, and increased administrative burden. Financial implications for patients and organizations include higher costs, errors, and regulatory non-compliance. Standardizing data in healthcare enables interoperability, streamlines processes, improves data quality, fosters innovation, and enhances patient care. Statistics show potential cost savings, error reduction, improved outcomes, and accelerated research with data standardization in the United States. Education, policy support, technology infrastructure, collaboration, incentives, patient engagement, and continuous improvement efforts are crucial to ensure widespread adoption.
Students: Shanil McFarlane-Fuller
Faculty Advisors: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: Emory Healthcare – Matthew Holland
This paper details the integration of SQL Server, SQL Spreads, and PowerBI into employee benefits management, aimed at replacing outdated manual processes with automated solutions to enhance operational efficiency and accuracy. It discusses project design, implementation challenges, and strategic solutions, including the development of user-friendly interfaces and data automation techniques. The paper concludes with a prospective look at potential advancements such as direct database integration and artificial intelligence enhancements, poised to set new standards in the industry.
Students: Kay Kellerhouse, Mallory Embry, Saiyida Zainab Jabeen
Faculty Advisors: Soo Il Shin, Ph.D., Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: Engagement Health Group – Jackie Warren, MD, RD, LD
In the dynamic realm of healthcare administration, accurately estimating the cost of training business office staff in hospitals presents a formidable challenge, exacerbated by high turnover rates and a myriad of variables ranging from personnel expenses to equipment purchases. This abstract delves into this complexity and explores potential solutions offered by CareFront Office Solutions; a pioneering partner dedicated to reshaping healthcare business office staffing. With hospitals under increasing pressure to recruit and retain competent administrative professionals,
the inability to accurately budget for training initiatives hampers their ability to allocate resources effectively. CareFront’s innovative approach aims to revolutionize the healthcare staffing landscape by leveraging industry expertise, a specialized talent pool, and innovative recruitment strategies. By offering tailored staffing solutions that prioritize client satisfaction, operational efficiency, and patient care, CareFront presents a compelling opportunity for hospitals to streamline processes, optimize resources, and enhance the quality of healthcare delivery amidst the evolving demands of the industry. As hospitals grapple with the challenges of high turnover and fluctuating staffing needs, partnering with CareFront provides a strategic advantage, enabling them to access top-tier professionals and mitigate the financial risks associated with training and recruitment. Through meticulous candidate sourcing, rigorous screening processes, and ongoing support, CareFront empowers hospitals to navigate the complexities of healthcare staffing with confidence and resilience.
Student: Brennan Couch
Faculty Advisor: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: LocumTenens.com – Jeannie Sanders
Critical care units are essential components of healthcare facilities, providing specialized care to patients with life-threatening illnesses or injuries. Nurse-to-patient ratios play a pivotal role in determining the quality of care delivered in these settings. This integrative review synthesizes existing literature to explore the impact of nurse-to-patient ratios on staffing and technology utilization within critical care units. Through a comprehensive search and analysis of relevant literature, this review explores the relationship between nurse staffing levels, patient outcomes, and the integration of technology in critical care environments. These findings emphasize the complex relationship between nurse staffing ratios, patient safety, workload management, and the adoption of technological components to support these factors. Implications for nursing practice, policy development, and future research are discussed to improve staffing strategies and enhance the efficiency of care in critical care settings.
Students: Tiana Cliett
Faculty Advisors: Margot Hedenstrom, Ph.D., Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
The healthcare industry faces persistent challenges in patient discharge, marked by communication breakdowns and inefficiencies, resulting in compromised care and readmissions. This study explores hospital discharge workflows, emphasizing the need for enhanced processes to ensure patient safety and improved outcomes. Through data analysis, it compares traditional and virtual discharge processes, aiming to identify areas for improvement and contribute to ongoing optimization efforts. By synthesizing insights from literature reviews and FMEA applications, the research aims to inform initiatives that enhance discharge processes, leading to better patient outcomes and healthcare delivery efficiency.
Students: Brianna Williams, Heighley Bodden, Joy Ihedioha, Nomana Khan, Tonya Condon, Zainab Suara
Faculty Advisors: Maria Valero, Ph.D., Valentina Nino, Ph.D., Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: Wellstar Health System – Susan Thurman and LeeAnna Spiva
The Data Profile Project, sponsored by McKesson and undertaken as a capstone initiative in the MSHMI program, aims to redefine the approach to customer data within the organization. Led by project owners Kalyn Simmons, Austin Black, and Claudia Arostegui, the project focuses on assessing data completeness and quality beyond mere data reception. By establishing a self-service tool and automated data alarms, stakeholders gain the capability to proactively monitor and maintain data integrity. The core project group collaborates to address current gaps in understanding data flow, prioritize data quality, and transition from reactive to proactive problem-solving approaches. The project’s scope encompasses defining data inclusion criteria for the Minimum Viable Product (MVP), establishing clear data quality benchmarks, developing DataMart tables and views, and constructing a Power BI dashboard prototype for visualization. A structured timeline delineates project milestones, from kickoff and planning through documentation, training, and project review. Ultimately, the Data Profile Project strives to revolutionize McKesson’s approach to customer data, ensuring not only its reception but also its quality, completeness, and proactive management. This abstract encapsulates the project’s objectives, methods, and anticipated outcomes, underpinning its significance in advancing data-driven healthcare management practices.
Student: Kalyn Simmons
Faculty Advisor: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: McKesson – Kimberly Portee, Claudia Arostegui, Tiffany Crawford, Omally Monahan, and Austin Black
Youth Mental Health Crisis: Services and Response
This research aims to investigate the multifaceted factors contributing to mental health crises, with a specific focus on both the general and pediatric population. We explore socio-economic, cultural, biological, and environmental aspects that influence mental well-being, aiming to identify interventions for crisis prevention, management, and support. The urgency of this study is underscored by the increasing prevalence of mental health challenges among the population globally, including anxiety, depression, neurodevelopmental, and behavioral disorders. Limited access to timely mental health services exacerbates these issues, leading to self-harm, substance abuse, and suicide risks. Our investigation emphasizes the critical need for comprehensive strategies that integrate data-driven approaches, evidence-based interventions, and policy reforms. By addressing gaps in access and advocating for systemic changes, we strive to improve the quality of life and future prospects for this vulnerable population. This research underscores the importance of collaborative efforts among first responders, healthcare providers, educators, policymakers, and communities to prioritize mental health and create supportive environments for everyone’s emotional, social, and academic well-being.
Students: Nickya King, Dichel Graves
Faculty Advisors: Dominic Thomas, Ph.D., Shery Ni, Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Abstract: Inaccurate and inefficient billing processes are a challenge in healthcare. This project implemented a project management framework to improve the update process for new professional and facility fee schedule codes and code denials on provider agreements. The approach focused on clear communication, collaboration, and a structured workflow. By treating the update process as a project, the initiative aimed to streamline operations, reduce errors, and achieve timely updates. Data from the previous year revealed a backlog of outdated codes. The project implemented the creation of detailed guides (“Plays”) for each team involved, followed by a comprehensive “Playbook” outlining the overall process. This resulted in a projected reduction in backlog and improved communication among teams. The project demonstrates the value of project management in enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of billing code updates in healthcare, fostering better provider relationships, and ultimately, improving patient care.
Student: Divya Mamtora
Faculty Advisors: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D., Andrea Taylor
Industry Sponsor: Elevance Health – Vinita Shrivastav, John Zotalis, and Ken Stark
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the vulnerabilities of nursing homes in effectively monitoring and managing infection-related illnesses have been starkly highlighted. This project aims to address this pressing need by developing a syndromic surveillance dashboard system tailored to the unique requirements of nursing home settings. Through a comprehensive literature review and stakeholder engagement, key insights have been gathered to inform the design and development of the dashboard system. Leveraging collaboration with RadarX, the dashboard system will enable real-time monitoring of infection-related symptoms among nursing home staff, enhancing infection control practices and staff wellness. The project’s methodology includes pilot testing in select nursing homes to evaluate effectiveness, usability, and impact on infection control measures. By focusing on the intersection of healthcare, technology, and data analytics, this project seeks to contribute to improved infection control measures and patient safety in nursing home environments.
Student: Vivian Chima
Faculty Advisors: Yifan Zhang, Ph.D., Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: RadarX – Saurabh Shrivastav
The Digital Health News (DHN) and CHIME India Annual survey delve into India’s dynamic healthcare landscape, focusing on digital transformation. Through a purposive sampling approach, influential leaders from 75 hospitals were targeted across regions and organization types. The survey, comprising 15 questions, explored digital health priorities, IT spending, and the transformative impact. Key findings reveal a strategic emphasis on Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems and an emerging interest in AI adoption. Challenges include in-house capabilities and EHR integration hurdles. Despite progress, regional and organizational disparities persist, signaling opportunities for collaboration and innovation. The survey serves as a catalyst for informed discussions, shaping the future of digital health in India.
Student: Jayline Paniagua
Faculty Advisor: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: ScaleHealthTech – Vishnu Saxena
In today’s healthcare environment, hospitals encounter multifaceted challenges, ranging from natural disasters, technology outages, and security breaches to pandemics. Developing a robust business continuity plan (BCP) is critical for hospitals to ensure seamless operations and patient care during unforeseen disruptions. This research paper analyzes the elements of the current state of the Shepherd Center’s business continuity plan and proposes strategies for re-optimization utilizing Epic’s Business Continuity Access strategy and support guide. By conducting a thorough assessment of the current BCP and department-specific analysis, this paper will provide practical recommendations for boosting resilience and adaptability in hospital operations. Implementing these strategies will help hospitals effectively manage crises and ensure long-term success.
Student: Shaniqua McNeil, BSN, RN
Faculty Advisor: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: The Shepherd Center – Kristin Ndiaye and Atul Kanvinde
The healthcare landscape is on the cusp of a revolution fueled by the transformative power of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) with the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT). This powerful duo holds immense potential to reshape patient care by offering exciting possibilities. This paper explores responsible integration practices, encompassing ethical considerations, cutting-edge technological advancements, and best practices that will guide successful implementation. We reviewed past research on responsible integration and identified key findings which include establishing robust data governance frameworks, ensuring fairness and transparency in AI algorithms, adhering to strong ethical guidelines, and fostering collaboration among all stakeholders, contributing to successful integration. There are several challenges in the way of general adoption, including data quality, interpretability, and the critical concerns of patient privacy and security. By addressing these challenges and adhering to responsible practices, healthcare organizations can leverage the power of AI and IoMT to improve patient outcomes and usher in a new era of personalized healthcare delivery.
Students: Caroline Lazaro, Dabnei LeBlanc, Grete Lawrence, Colette Obazee, Dipti Paldhikar
Faculty Advisor: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D.
Industry Sponsor: AMIA Fellowship
This study will be predicting revenue outbreaks for a company that offers substantial advantages, promoting both learning and professional development. Given the multitude of revenue figures among various companies, healthcare analytics can provide valuable insights into their financial performance. Understanding how businesses invest their money becomes crucial in light of the increasing concerns about annual revenues. Engaging in this experience not only broadens one’s knowledge and refines analytical skills but also offers practical business insights, propelling individuals’ careers to new levels in the field of data analytics.
Student: Khushbuben Patel
Faculty Advisors: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D., Andrea Taylor
Industry Sponsor: Technology Association of Georgia (TAG)
The state of Georgia with a population of over 10.7 million inhabitants hinged on its booming economy, affordable cost of living, and commitment to education, is ranked as the 11th fastest-growing state in the United States, home to 18 Fortune® 500 Headquarters and 32 Fortune® 1000 Headquarters and is proud to be the home to many of the healthcare industry’s most innovative and impactful technology companies. “What we are building is more than just a world headquarters campus…we are building a work environment that replicates the innovative experiences we create for our customers every day and will help ensure one world-class work environment.” - Bill Nuti, Former President, CEO & Chairman of NCR.As a way of supporting the economy and the developmental drive of the state, the Technology Association of Georgia (TAG), through its subsidiary (TAG Digital Health Society), has constituted the TAG Digital Health Ecosystem to serve as a living directory and showcasing the digital health companies who have chosen Georgia as their home. This project aims to profile the existing TAG Digital Health ecosystem database. A data model will also be created to provide others with a visual representation in support of the profiling to ensure that there is a standardized database for digital healthcare companies in the state of Georgia. Profiling as used in this context means matching companies/organizations’ basic information (brief profiles, contact information, social media handles, employees, and revenue size) with their true identities and physical presence. This central hub will serve as a resource for digital health companies seeking potential partners, investors who are looking for digital health companies to invest, healthcare providers seeking digital healthcare solutions, healthcare companies considering a move to Georgia, job seekers exploring new opportunities, and a data point for those considering research in digital healthcare.
Student: Olu Mbanugo
Faculty Advisors: Sweta Sneha, Ph.D., Andrea Taylor
Industry Sponsor: Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) (Digital Health)