On Aug. 19, 2018, BioNexus KC announced it had been awarded a $42,900 grant from the Health Forward Foundation to collaborate with Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center and Helix Health in using advanced data analytics to improve outcomes of patients who are at increased risk of COVID-19 complications due to underlying chronic conditions and socioeconomic disparities.

The project’s goal is to empower Rodgers Health to harness patient data, identify who is at risk of adverse outcomes, and provide moderate interventions to lower the risk presented by potential COVID-19 exposure. This collaboration strives to increase provider and patient engagement through data-driven, targeted interventions, lowering barriers to primary care adherence and improving behaviors.

“BioNexus KC has become increasingly alarmed with COVID-19’s significant differential impact on communities of color,” said Dr. Keith Gary, Vice President of BioNexus KC. “By partnering with Helix Health on this project, we as an organization can contribute to impacting health disparities through application of unique technology approaches.”

Disparities in health access contribute to a history of poor health outcomes in Kansas City. Minorities with diabetes in Kansas City carry a disproportionate burden from COVID-19, including increased risk of ICU admissions and death. This virus has proven to be especially dangerous to people with underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and asthma. Research has shown that the risk of death and increased hospital stay due to the coronavirus is four times greater for people with diabetes. The risk is lowered when chronic conditions such as diabetes are well managed.

This large-scale solution, afforded by emerging technologies, can address systemic health issues in a way that allows safety nets to adhere to the Institute for Healthcare Improvement triple aim of better health, better care, and lowering costs.