SUMMARY
Jennifer L. Fang, M.D., M.S., is a neonatologist with research interests in the areas of telemedicine and quality improvement. She is the co-principal investigator for the Mayo Clinic-sponsored North American multicenter TELENEO Pilot Study. She also serves as site principal investigator for the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)-funded VentFirst trial.
Focus areas
- Teleneonatology. At-risk babies born in hospitals without a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), termed outborn neonates, experience higher rates of mortality and morbidity. Telemedicine consultation with a neonatologist may reduce these health disparities. Dr. Fang and her team are studying the impact of teleneonatology on the physiological stability, resuscitative care, and risk of early mortality and morbidity in at-risk outborn neonates. These include preterm infants born outside of tertiary care medical centers.
- Telesimulation. Telesimulation uses telecommunication and simulation resources to provide education, training and assessment to learners at an off-site location. Dr. Fang and her team are characterizing the effectiveness of telesimulation for neonatal resuscitation training.
- Quality improvement (QI). Continuous quality improvement is needed to ensure safe, effective, timely and equitable care in the NICU. Dr. Fang and her team use QI frameworks, methodologies and tools to improve the care of patients in the NICU and their families.
Significance to patient care
Understanding the value that teleneonatology brings to the care of at-risk outborn neonates may significantly impact health care delivery methods in the U.S. and around the world. Advantages of teleneonatology include improved quality of care, patient safety and cost of care.
Telesimulation brings additional content expertise and simulation-based training experience to lesser resourced facilities. Educational activities are enhanced to improve patient care at these sites.
Rigorous QI projects advance processes and systems within the NICU. Results can positively affect the care and experience of infants, families and health care staff.
Professional highlights
- Section on Telehealth Care Executive Committee, American Academy of Pediatrics.
- Chair, 2022-present.
- Member, 2018-2022.
- Member, Telehealth Special Interest Group Global Steering Committee, International Hospital Federation, 2021-present.
- Top abstract award, Mayo Clinic Quality Conferences.
- Pediatric Quality Improvement Leader award, Mayo Clinic, 2019.
- Mayo Brothers Distinguished Fellowship Award, 2017.