It wasn’t until I came to NICHQ and started witnessing transformational change like this that I realized my personal efforts at reorganizing things in my life were actually disorganized and unsystematic. I have learned that improving systems is a science. There is a logical, ordered series of steps that will truly lead to more efficient and effective systems. Read More.

It seems like a no brainer. Formula companies should be happy to have hospitals say no to freebies and insist on paying for formula. But hospitals seeking to improve breastfeeding rates have found the opposite to be true: formula companies are threatened by the potential loss of exposure for their brands in maternity units. This has made it particularly challenging for hospitals intent on paying for formula, an evidence-based tactic to improve breastfeeding rates. Read More.

Many things outside of a doctor’s office can negatively affect health. Patient health can be impeded by issues such as struggles with housing and bills, lack of support for breastfeeding or exercise, or confusion about how to navigate the healthcare system. Building relationships with community organizations can be a huge boon to healthcare practices and their patients. Read More.

A national movement has begun to shift healthcare into a family-and-patient-centered medical home model. The philosophy is about delivering services that truly serve the patient by making healthcare more equitable, accessible, culturally relevant, coordinated, preventative and efficient. In this Q&A with Jennifer Lail, MD, learn about what practices can start to do to make the transition. Read More.