Earn the UPMC LGBTQIA+ Affirming Provider designation!
Sep. 2024Important Notices
Improving antibiotic prescribing is a priority as antibiotics are still widely overprescribed for conditions where they are not indicated. Beginning or building an antibiotic stewardship program is an effective way to improve health outcomes and reduce costs related to antibiotic resistance. Providers can embrace antibiotic stewardship efforts using these and other best practices:
- Follow HEDIS® quality measures such as Appropriate Testing for Pharyngitis (CWP), Appropriate Treatment for Upper Respiratory Infection (URI), and Avoidance of Antibiotic Treatment for Bronchitis/Bronchiolitis (AAB).
- Adhere to clinical practice guidelines by prescribing antibiotics strictly in accordance with evidence-based national and local clinical practice guidelines, taking care to prescribe per population.
- Close knowledge gaps by reviewing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention antibiotic stewardship bundles for online training modules and tools and guidance by care setting, audience, and resource type.
Read Provider Partner Update (see page 19) for more tips to help strengthen antibiotic stewardship efforts and improve health outcomes.
HEDIS® The Healthcare Electiveness’ Data and Information Set (HEDIS®) is a registered trademark of NCQA.
Recent Announcements
HPV Vaccination Resources
To help protect against cancers later in life, it is important to increase HPV vaccination rates in adolescents starting at age 9. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HPV vaccination is routinely recommended at age 11 or 12, but the vaccine can be given starting at age 9.1 The Pennsylvania Cancer Coalition cites the following potential benefits of initiating the HPV vaccine series at age 9:2Mar. 2025Important Notices
Special notice: Important policy changes
Effective May 1, 2025, the following policies will be retired and replaced with prior authorization policies. For more information, please visit upmchp.us/policiesandprocedures.Mar. 2025Important Notices
CME Webinar: Essential Best Practices for Newborn Care: Ensuring Healthy Beginnings Through Comprehensive Care
Please join us for a live, CME-accredited webinar on Wednesday, May 7, from noon to 1 p.m. that will provide an overview of newborn care.Feb. 2025Education/Webinars