No abstract

Background: The stroke program did not have a formal system to gather data elements needed for driving processes and measuring outcomes. Abstracting data was done by manually auditing every stroke electronic medical record. Purpose: The purpose was to use technology: To collect data for baseline and benchmarking patient demographics and outcomes. To communicate and educate healthcare professionals and improve processes. Methods: Based on the AHA/ASA Get with the Guidelines (GWTG). We identified and abstracted data from discrete fields in the electronic medical record (EMR). Using Clarity the Information Technology (IT) department built discrete fields in EMR to capture 23 missing fields for GWTG. Manual concurrent review and monthly clarity reports were completed. This data was used retrospectively for benchmarking and prospectively for telemedicine and transition of care follow-up. Results: To keep in alignment with AHA/ASA guidelines for GWTG data collection on the 48 GWTG discrete fields 43 are now automated. Random chart review is completed to validate data abstraction. We now have completed demographic and outcomes data on over 600 patients. Conclusions: In conclusion, the use of IT is a reliable and valid way of abstracting GWTG AIS data to provide benchmarking and process improvement. This IT process facilitates clinical data collection, transmission and communication between providers, enabling modification of treatment regimens and transitions of care.