Chief of Population Health, Eastern Health Cluster | Healthcare Transformation | Value-Based Care | Epidemiology Public Health
PHM Goes Beyond Data Visualization! Population Health Management (PHM) is often mistaken for mere data visualization, where trends, graphs, and dashboards capture attention. But true PHM extends far beyond just presenting data; it’s about transforming that data into actionable insights that drive better health outcomes for entire populations. A core aspect of PHM involves identifying patterns, stratifying risk, and intervening with targeted strategies for groups most likely to benefit. For instance, while graphs on diabetes prevalence rates across communities are informative, PHM requires us to delve deeper, identifying not only those at risk but also the socioeconomic and environmental factors contributing to high diabetes rates. Are individuals with limited access to fresh food and safe exercise spaces seeing higher rates? Is there an opportunity to support primary care providers to prevent disease progression among at-risk patients? In a PHM approach, visualizations serve as starting points. What matters most is the journey from raw data to real-world action. This involves continuous monitoring and engagement with patients, clinicians, and communities, alongside dynamic interventions based on real-time insights. By driving programs focused on both clinical and social determinants, such as food security and access to mental health resources, PHM emphasizes a proactive approach to healthcare. Ultimately, while data visualization is a tool within PHM, the goal is a coordinated system that addresses root causes and improves health at a population level. By embedding these insights into everyday practice, we make strides toward healthier, more equitable communities.
Anita Moore
1mo
Thank you, Dr. Saad! Population Health Management (PHM) is all about making informed, evidence-based decisions. It’s crucial to dive deep into the root causes of issues so we can implement effective strategies. Whenever possible, we strive to co-design these interventions with the communities we serve, ensuring that they're tailored to meet their specific needs.
Daniel Iheanacho
1mo
Nice insight Saad Alshahrani MD, MPH, PhD Simply visualizing data without a well-defined strategic plan to create measurable impact and drive positive outcomes undermines the purpose of Population Health Management (PHM).
Umar Faruqui
1mo
Great insights Saad Alshahrani MD, MPH, PhD. Pairing early detection of risk or disease with customised care interventions is what drives outcomes. Love the emphasis on SDOH needs.
Well said and informative points Dr. Saad
Thank you for shedding light on the true depth of Population Health Management! It’s refreshing to see a focus beyond the surface-level visuals and towards using data to drive meaningful change. Addressing social determinants like food security and access to mental health resources is crucial for creating a proactive, equitable healthcare system. This approach really underscores the impact PHM can have on entire communities by focusing on actionable insights. Great insight!
Spot on. The data and models are only as valuable as the interventions, support services and investments that theycan drive.
Ali Shukor
1mo
Totally agree, PHM analytics must enable and inform clinical and organizational decision making. You may be interested in the PHM analytics work we did in British Columbia: https://www.thepermanentejournal.org/doi/epdf/10.7812/TPP/20.050
Very insightful .. thanks for sharing 👍
population health management lead, Expert in Health transformation, PMP, MPH, ToT, Qassim Health Cluster
1moThank you, Dr. Saad, for highlighting the depth of Population Health Management (PHM). Your points resonate—PHM is indeed about transforming data into impactful health interventions, not just visualization. At Qassim Health Cluster, we see this in our diabetes management efforts, where understanding factors like healthcare access and patient education allows us to create tailored, effective programs. Your emphasis on proactive, continuous engagement aligns perfectly with our goal to make sustainable health improvements across communities.