Elizabeth Parker, Ph.D., MPH
Data Scientist
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield
When we think of science in the healthcare field, we often think of medical science—the study of science and the human body. But there are other types of science that we use in healthcare, like “data science.” Data science analyzes large amounts of information from different sources to better understand their impact on real life.
In healthcare, this means collecting and analyzing medical data to find patterns that can help better inform patient care and treatment options. Alone, this data is complex and hard to understand. However, when analyzed on a large scale by data scientists using artificial intelligence and machine learning, it can be helpful to understand the big picture of health for a population.
The Power of Data Science
People often visit the doctor when they notice unusual changes in their health or are feeling sick. This is a reactive approach to treating sickness that begins once a patient shows symptoms. With the help of data insights, healthcare professionals are equipped with knowledge that can help identify which people are more at risk for certain conditions before they show sickness. Data insights also help medical professionals understand which treatments or drugs are most effective in specific scenarios. This allows providers to personalize care and support patients with the right preventive care services, education, and treatment.
At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, we use data to guide how we support our members’ long-term health. One example is how we care for people with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Case Study: Chronic Kidney Disease
Our kidneys have important jobs. They remove waste and extra water from our blood. They also balance minerals, maintain blood pressure, and keep bones healthy. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) occurs when the kidneys have become damaged over time and have a hard time doing their jobs. For those with CKD, it’s especially important to monitor the progression of the disease.
Unfortunately, it can be hard to detect. In fact, data science and health economic analyses have found that people may not experience symptoms in the early stages of the disease. Over 350,000 adults in Arkansas have CKD and, 80% of them don’t know they have it.
At Arkansas Blue Cross, we use data to help understand which members may be at risk of chronic kidney disease. We can use the data to help decide when and how to engage and support these members. Data allows us to support members through:
- Early detection: Household size and income can help predict whether someone’s CKD is detected early or in a more advanced stage. We can use the data to help us decide when and how to engage with our members.
- Member education: We give members information and resources to learn about the early signs of CKD. That can potentially lessen their risk of late-stage diagnosis. It also helps those already diagnosed to better manage their condition.
- Incentivizing healthy behaviors: Visiting a primary care doctor is important to identify symptoms and receive regular treatment. We can reward members who take proactive steps through programs like our Blue Wellness Rewards.
- Providing additional support: Whether a person has a strong support network can be a key indicator of loneliness and help identify patients at a higher risk. Our case managers can connect members facing CKD to chronic illness support groups for extra emotional support while navigating their condition.
- Reducing patient costs: Treating late-stage CKD can be more complex and costly. Early detection and knowing which treatments may be most impactful can help reduce costs for those facing chronic kidney disease.
Using Data for Whole Person Health
Data science can greatly impact our health. Using data effectively helps us take good care of our members. One of the best ways to stay healthy and stay ahead of common health challenges is prevention. The earlier we can work with our members, the earlier we can provide education and connect them with doctors and resources.
Learn more about how Arkansas Blue Cross supports preventive care and find resources for management of chronic conditions, like CKD and more.