What is the main goal of the HEDIS measure tracking follow-up care for cancer screenings?

The primary goal of the HEDIS measure that tracks follow-up care for cancer screenings is to ensure that patients receive necessary follow-up care after abnormal results. This is crucial because early detection of cancer through screenings can lead to better management and treatment outcomes. Abnormal results may indicate the need for further diagnostic procedures or treatments, and by focusing on follow-up care, the measure aims to improve patient outcomes and ensure that individuals do not fall through the cracks in the healthcare system.

Monitoring follow-up care helps healthcare organizations identify gaps in the process, ensuring that every patient with an abnormal screening result receives timely intervention. In doing so, it emphasizes the importance of continuity of care, ultimately leading to improved patient health and potentially reducing the severity of cancer cases down the line.

While quantifying the number of screenings conducted, evaluating the effectiveness of screening procedures, and reducing costs are important aspects of healthcare quality, the measure specifically targets the follow-up care aspect, making it pivotal in managing patients' health post-screening.