Hospital Engagement Networks lessen harm and costs

The largest of 26 coalitions participating in the $218 million, federally funded Hospital Engagement Networks (HEN) program claims it has prevented 69,000 patients from hospital-caused complications at 1,600 hospitals in its first two years compared to rates from the recent past. Hospitals participating in HENs have "decreased central line infections by more than 45%" in the last two years, according to CMS. The largest coalition, operated by the American Hospital Association, says it has saved $201 million.

HENs were set up under the Partnership for Patients made possible by the Affordable Care Act. The federal money provides support to build learning collaboratives, conduct training programs, and provide technical assistance enabling hospitals to track and monitor improvement. The program also identifies high-performing hospitals to serve as models for other hospitals trying to improve care.

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Source: HealthLeaders Media