World’s First C-COMM Stage 7: Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center

Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center in Jacksonville, Florida, has made history by becoming the first organization to reach Stage 7 validation in the Community Care Outcomes Maturity Model (C-COMM). Baptist Health is the first healthcare organization in the world to receive the highest possible designation on C-COMM, HIMSS’s newest maturity model.

The C-COMM maturity model focuses on the digital maturity of care in non-acute care settings, such as primary care, telehealth, maternal and child wellness, and mental health.

The C-COMM validation efforts are having a positive impact on both Baptist MD Anderson and its patients. By assessing and enhancing their digital capabilities, the cancer center has improved patient satisfaction and experience and strengthened cybersecurity.

Baptist MD Anderson has also streamlined clinical workflows, resulting in enhanced patient care and outcomes. These improvements have led to more efficient operations, reduced wait times, and improved accuracy in diagnostics and treatment planning.

Patients now experience quicker access to care, greater personalized treatment options, improved outcomes and better overall experiences. Ultimately, their newfound digital maturity helps deliver high-quality, patient-centered care, enhancing outcomes and quality of life for those affected by cancer.

“We are proud to be at the forefront of using cutting-edge technology to transform how high-quality health care is delivered,” said Aaron Miri, MBA, FCHIME, CHCIO, senior vice president and chief digital and information officer of Baptist Health. “This recognition reflects our teams’ dedication to meeting the evolving need of our patients.”

In its C-COMM validation process, Baptist MD Anderson was initially validated for Stage 6, making it only the second organization globally to reach this stage. The center then achieved Stage 7 through continued efforts and dedication to drive digital transformation in their community care - meeting patients wherever and whenever they need care.

Dr. Natasha Ramontal, digital health strategist at HIMSS, was a part of the validation team for Baptist Health. Dr. Ramontal shared her excitement over the world’s first C-COMM Stage 7 validation, “over the past two years, Baptist MD Anderson and the entire Baptist Health system has achieved remarkable progress by implementing a new electronic medical records (EMR) system throughout their health network, even during a pandemic. It is no surprise that Baptist Health is the first C-COMM Stage 7 in North America and the world. They have set a high standard for other health systems to follow in terms of digital health transformation and community outreach."