Launching the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital's Community Care Coordination Initiative and health information exchange project

Although the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation became a national philanthropy in 1972 and has operated on a national scale since then, it also has continued funding a limited number of local institutions and projects in the New Brunswick area and throughout New Jersey. It does so in part to honor the legacy of its founder, and in part to recognize the special responsibilities to the communities and the state in which it is located.This grant supports the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) with two related projects to improve health care. The first project will enhance health care services, and coordination of aftercare services, for elderly patients who suffer from multiple chronic health conditions and complex social circumstances, and who are highly at risk for hospital readmission. The second project will help RWJUH finance its membership in a regional health information exchange (HIE) -- one of four region HIEs being established in New Jersey by health care provider partnerships -- beginning with connecting the hospital's local health providers to one another. The goals of HIEs are to reduce medical errors and redundant care; empower consumers to become more active, informed participants in their care; expand the adoption and meaningful use of electronic medical records; and ensure confidentiality, privacy and security. RWJUH expects these projects will improve patient care, reduce health care costs, and reduce readmissions. These are vital steps in preparing RWJUH for the health reform objectives of improving health and reducing unsustainable growth in costs.

Grant Details

Amount Awarded $4,000,000.00

Awarded on: 4/28/2011

Time frame: 5/15/2011 - 5/14/2014

Grant Number: 68731