Identified themes of interactive visualizations overlayed onto EHR data: an example of improving birth center operating room efficiency. (17th March 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stirling, Andrew; Tubb, Tracy; Reiff, Emily S; Grotegut, Chad A; Gagnon, Jennifer; Li, Weiyi; Bradley, Gail; Poon, Eric G; Goldstein, Benjamin A
• Is Part Of: Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association. Volume 27:Number 5(2020)
• Page Start: 783
• Page End: 787
• Publication Date: 2020-03-17
• Subjects: electronic health records -- visualization -- quality improvement, Obstetrics, birth outcomes; Medical informatics -- Periodicals; Information Services -- Periodicals; Medical Informatics -- Periodicals; Médecine -- Informatique -- Périodiques; Informatica; Geneeskunde; Informatique médicale; Computer network resources; Electronic journals; 610.285
• DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocaa016
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1067-5027

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: While electronic health record (EHR) systems store copious amounts of patient data, aggregating those data across patients can be challenging. Visual analytic tools that integrate with EHR systems allow clinicians to gain better insight and understanding into clinical care and management. We report on our experience building Tableau-based visualizations and integrating them into our EHR system. Materials and Methods: Visual analytic tools were created as part of 12 clinician-initiated quality improvement projects. We built the visual analytic tools in Tableau and linked it within our EPIC environment. We identified 5 visual themes that spanned the various projects. To illustrate these themes, we choose 1 exemplary project which aimed to improve obstetric operating room efficiency. Results: Across our 12 projects, we identified 5 visual themes that are integral to project success: scheduling & optimization (in 11/12 projects); provider assessment (10/12); executive assessment (8/12); patient outcomes (7/12); and control and goal charts (2/12). Discussion: Many visualizations share common themes. Identification of these themes has allowed our internal team to be more efficient and directed in developing visualizations for future projects. Conclusion: Organizing visual analytics into themes can allow informatics teams to more efficiently provide visual products to clinical collaborators.