Dr. Tim Schurz along with MCIDT affiliate Dr. Jason Weinberg, Dr. Liz Lloyd, and Dr. Gary Freed, conducted a study that evaluated the effects of institutional clinical guidelines on care delivery and equity among children hospitalized with acute hematogenous osteomyelitis. Implementation was associated with increased appropriate empiric antibiotic administration and a greater median number of inpatient pediatric infectious diseases consult visits. However, disparities in blood culture testing and specialist consultation persisted across racial and neighborhood deprivation groups. Authors conclude that, “Persistent differences by race and socioeconomic status highlight the need for equity-focused implementation strategies to ensure consistent, high-quality care for all children.”
Key terms: Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis; Clinical Practice Guidelines; Pediatric Infectious diseases; Institutional care pathways; Healthcare disparities.
