Using clinical data in program design: a family support program for families with preterm infants.

HMOs can use clinical data culled from computerized medical records and provider and patient interviews to examine the impact of premature infant births on the family. The results can help guide health plans in developing a clinical intervention program to address the physical and emotional consequences of low birthweight babies. The Harvard Pilgrim Health Care experience describes the data collection process administrators are taking to design such a clinical intervention.