Robert J Romanelli , Kristen M J Azar, Sylvia Sudat , Dorothy Hung , Dominick L Frosch, Alice R Pressman, Mayo Clin Proc Innov Qual Outcomes. doi: 10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2020.10.004. Online ahead of print, 2020 Oct 29
Investigators
Kristen Azar, R.N., BSN, MSN/MPH, Investigator, Dominick L. Frosch, Ph.D., Director, PAMFRI, Dorothy Hung, Ph.D., M.A., MPH, Associate Scientist, Alice R. Pressman, Ph.D., M.S., Robert Romanelli, Ph.D., MPH, Associate Scientist, Sylvia Sudat, PhD
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic is the gravest public-health crisis that the United States has seen in more than a century. Healthcare delivery systems are the focal point for interfacing with COVID-19; however, many were and remain unprepared for this or similar outbreaks.
In this paper, we describe the Learning Health System (LHS) as an ideal organizing principle to inform an evidence-based response to public-health emergencies like COVID-19. We further describe barriers and challenges to the realization of the LHS and propose a call to action for a substantial investment in the LHS, with a focus on public health.
Specifically, we advocate for a Learning Health Network that promotes collaboration between health systems, community-based organizations, and government agencies, especially during public health emergencies. We have approached this commentary through the unique lens of researchers embedded within a large, integrated healthcare delivery system, with direct experience working with clinical and operational units in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.