Nashville, Tenn.-based Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt University Medical Center improved satisfaction among pediatric behavioral patients with an individualized care planning tool.
The tool, My Health Passport, was introduced in 2017 and is intended to help children communicate preferences, triggers and coping strategies during extended boarding stays, according to a Nov. 12 news release from the center. The one-page questionnaire is completed by patients and caregivers and integrated into the electronic health record for use by clinical staff.
Researchers conducted a prospective cohort study to evaluate the tool’s impact, enrolling 100 patients ages 8 to 17, 74 parents or caregivers, and 76 staff members. The average satisfaction score was 7.72 out of 10, and participants said the tool contributed to better experiences and outcomes.
Patients said the tool made them feel seen and heard, while parents and caregivers praised the opportunity to share insights. Staff found it most effective when integrated into workflows for easy access, according to the release.
Study leaders plan to incorporate participant recommendations, including earlier introduction of the tool during hospital encounters and potential use in outpatient settings.
