News release 11/4/11
IOM reports on efforts to develop a ‘learning health system’
The Institute of Medicine recently issued a report on efforts by its Roundtable on Value & Science-Driven Health Care to promote a “learning health system.” Guided by leaders from key stakeholder sectors, the Roundtable has worked since 2006 to accelerate the production and use of needed evidence on what works best in health care; characterize and explore the nature, potential and elements of a “learning health system” that yields continuous improvement in outcomes while reducing the costs of health and health care; and marshal collaborative action. The report summarizes a series of Roundtable publications that present a vision and strategies for a learning health system, and efforts by its Innovation Collaboratives to accelerate progress in five areas: best clinician practices, innovative effectiveness research, digital learning, evidence communication, and value incentives. Roundtable members include AHA Trustee Jonathan Perlin, M.D., president of clinical and physician services for HCA Inc., as well as other hospital leaders. For more on the initiative, visit www.iom.edu/vsrt.
