Medicaid Quality Measurement for Children and Youth With Special Health Care Needs
2 to 3 p.m. (EST), Monday, Nov. 27, 2017
Quality measurement is a critical component of all state Medicaid programs. As health reform efforts expand and children’s health quality measurement efforts become more advanced, federal and state interest in quality improvement for children with chronic and complex health care needs is increasing. Quality measurement and improvement have many challenges, but there are a variety of strategies available to states to leverage quality metrics to improve the quality of health care and quality of life for children with chronic and complex health care needs and their families.
This webinar, supported by the Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health, examines the current landscape, challenges, and key strategies for states conducting quality measurement for these children. It also highlights New York’s approach to using quality metrics to improve care and outcomes.
Speakers include:
- Rita Mangione-Smith, professor and chief, Division of General Pediatrics and Hospital Medicine, University of Washington (UW); director, Quality of Care Research Fellowship, UW Department of Pediatrics and Seattle Children’s Hospital; and investigator, Center for Child Health, Behavior, and Development, Seattle Children’s Research Institute
- Lana Earle, deputy director, Office of Health Insurance Programs, Division of Program Development and Management, New York State Department of Health
- Sherry Piscitella, program director, Performance Management, Division of Program Development and Management, New York State Department of Health
- Susan Slade, director, Bureau of Child Health, Division of Family Health, New York State Department of Health
For individuals living with complex, often chronic conditions, and their families, palliative care can provide relief from symptoms, improve satisfaction and outcomes, and help address critical mental and spiritual needs during difficult times. Now more than ever, there is growing recognition of the importance of palliative care services for individuals with serious illness, such as advance care planning, pain and symptom management, care coordination, and team-based, multi-disciplinary support. These services can help patients and families cope with the symptoms and stressors of disease, better anticipate and avoid crises, and reduce unnecessary and/or unwanted care. While this model is grounded in evidence that demonstrates improved quality of life, better outcomes, and reduced cost for patients, only a fraction of individuals who could benefit from palliative care receive it. 
