A computerized system specifically designed with process improvement and error-free delivery of ROP care as a focus can improve adherence to AAP guidelines and achieve superior results. Such a system creates a standardized and measurable safety net for pediatric ophthalmologists, neonatologists, hospitals, and follow-up pediatricians. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2017;54(6):356-362.].
ObjectiveThis article reports on retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) workload in the NICU related to severity of disease, gestational age at discharge, and practice variation.Study designData analysis on 1771 patients ≤ 30 weeks of gestation at birth from a de-identified data set of 13 NICUs.ResultsThere was a positive relationship between the severity of ROP and (1) the number of exams per patient, (2) the severity of ROP, and (3) postmenstrual age at discharge. The progression between the stages of ROP added to exam workload and postmenstrual age at NICU discharge. The addition of plus disease did not increase the exam burden. There was significant practice variation in the number of exams performed independent of ROP severity.ConclusionThe progression of the severity of ROP independent of plus disease, and practice variations both contribute to ROP workload. Addressing these factors could decrease ROP workload without compromising American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines.
A computer application with a deliberate NICU process improved the proportion of eligible neonates getting their scheduled eye examinations in a timely manner.
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