Thanuya Mampilly, Digital and Transformation Lead at Central Basildon PCN, shares her experience of using the Athena strategic data and analytics platform.
What do you currently use Athena for?
“As a digital and transformation lead, Athena plays a pivotal role in our data-driven approach to healthcare. Today, we primarily use Athena in three key areas.
In population health analysis, Athena enables us to analyse extensive datasets concerning the health and wellbeing of our population. By querying data directly from health records we can swiftly identify health trends, monitor long term health conditions, look at overuse of A and E with reason of attendance, and evaluate the efficacy of public health interventions.
To enhance healthcare quality we use Athena to monitor the performance of healthcare services. By examining patient outcomes, hospital readmission rates and treatment effectiveness, we can identify areas for improvement and implement evidence-based strategies to enhance the quality of care.
And finally, for optimising resource allocation and efficiency, Athena assists us in analysing operational data to optimise resource use. By assessing appointment utilisation rates and staffing levels, we ensure ARRS are allocated efficiently, supporting the sustainable use of NHS resources.”
What challenges has Athena helped you to overcome?
“Athena has significantly streamlined data analysis processes, helping us to address several challenges we previously encountered.
Prior to Athena, accessing and integrating diverse datasets from various sources was hard but Athena simplifies this by allowing us to view data in a dashboard and identify area that needs attention. Our analysis has also improved as we can analyse patient data across different constraints making it easier to identify and analyse patterns.”
What have been the benefits of Athena to your PCN and the community it serves?
“Athena’s implementation has yielded numerous benefits across various levels of our network:
- Enhanced decision-making: For our directorate, Athena provides the intelligence needed to make informed decisions. Access to comprehensive and timely data allows us to develop targeted interventions, improve service delivery and plan strategically for future healthcare needs.
- Improved patient outcomes: For our community, the ability to analyse health trends and service performance translates into better patient outcomes. By identifying gaps in care and addressing them proactively, we enhance the overall health and wellbeing of the population.
- Transparency and accountability: Athena facilitates transparent reporting mechanisms, which are crucial for accountability. By making data-driven decisions and demonstrating their impact, we build trust with residents and stakeholders.
- Operational efficiency: The efficiencies gained from optimised resource allocation ensure that we can provide high-quality care without unnecessary expenditure. This sustainable use of resources aligns with the NHS’s triple aim of enhancing health, improving service quality and ensuring cost-effectiveness.
- Community trust and engagement: By leveraging data to address community health concerns and improve service delivery, we foster a stronger connection with our residents. Engaging the community with evidence-based health initiatives promotes trust and active participation in health programmes.”
Learn more about the benefits and functionality of Athena.