Quality Reports - Herma Heart Center
Electrocardiogram (EKG) - Volume
Why we measure it - EKGs are simple, quick and painless procedures, however reading pediatric EKGs needs a high degree of specialization. Research shows that physicians and hospitals that treat a large number of patients tend to provide better care and have improved outcomes for treatments and procedures.
What this means - An electrocardiogram is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart, shows abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias or dysrhythmias) and detects heart muscle damage. As our clinic volume grows and we see more patients, our diagnostic test volume also increases.
About the data - This data reflects EKG procedures captured in our billing system in years 2004-2007.
Related dimensions of care:
 
What we're doing to provide the best care:
- We will be expanding our clinic space to care for more patients with the hospital tower construction due for completion in 2009.
- We have new systems in place to report results more quickly, such as MUSE where the results are automatically delivered to the referring physician.
- We established a results turnaround goal of 24 to 48 hours.
- We developed innovative programs including 24-hour holter monitoring where every heart beat is recorded for a 24-hour duration through a mobile EKG machine and trans telethonic event recorder that sends heart signals over the phone.
- We are involved in research studies such as family history of sudden deaths and the use of EKGs as a screening tool for medication side effects.
Patients/Families - In order for us to see the large number of patients who seek our care:
- If you cannot make a scheduled appointment, please call Central Scheduling at (877) 607-5280 or (414) 607-5280 as soon as possible to reschedule so another child can be seen.
- Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment so we can gather needed information from you before you see the doctor.
- Bring the name, address, phone and fax numbers of your primary care and/or referring doctor so we can update them appropriately on your care.
- Bring a full list of the medications your child is taking including over-the-counter medicines such as vitamins and supplements.
If you have questions about this data or information, e-mail us or call (414) 266-6726. |
