Demonstrating the Power of CQIs

A recent analysis of MISHC and BMC2 data compared to national registry data partners revealed a variety of critical-to-quality measures on which Michigan participants excel. 

MISHC hospitals have a lower overall death rate when compared with the nation since 2017, including a 64% decrease over time. MISHC hospitals maintain a steadily decreasing rate of blood transfusions, avoiding more than 4000 transfusions. This result was attained when MISHC set a statewide goal, issued best practice protocols and quarterly data reports, and convened consortium meeting presentations and discussions. 

A graph of MISHC rate of transfusion over time compared to the national rate.

MISHC mortality rates compared to the national data.In patients who have had PCI, BMC2 data demonstrate that Michigan physicians increasingly focus on prescribing guideline-recommended medications that reduce cholesterol and prevent blood clots and do so consistently above the national average. BMC2 hospitals also have a steadily low blood transfusion rate after PCI over time and at rates below the national average. Additionally, BMC2 surpasses the nation at referral to cardiac rehabilitation; a 90% referral rate in Michigan translates to over 23,000 patients referred to cardiac rehab each year. These interventions contribute to improved long-term health outcomes and a reduction in hospital readmissions.PCI rates of medication at discharge compared to the national level.

A graph shows that referral to cardiac rehab is higher in Michigan than the nation as a whole with more than 23,000 referrals to cardiac rehab in Michigan in 2021

Similarly, among VS patients, BMC2 hospitals prescribe guideline-recommended medications at a higher rate than their national counterparts. Michigan hospitals demonstrate consistent year-to-year improvement in decreasing the length of hospital stay for endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) patients, increasing patient satisfaction, improving outcomes, and saving costs. A graph comparing recommended medication being described at discharge for BMC2 Vascular Surgery patients compared to the national average.

Graph showing that length of stay after EVAR was shorter for patients in Michigan than the national average.​The power of CQIs is evident in MISHC and BMC2 performance on key measures of quality when compared to national rates. This is supported through research. A recent article by Beaulieu et al. (3) demonstrated that participation in BMC2 is a key contributor toward increased adherence to best practices and hospital performance improves the longer they are members. Patients in Michigan clearly benefit from the strength of the collaborative work of BMC2 through improvements in care and outcomes.