Increasing Efficiency in the Interventional Radiology Division: Multiple Changes in Workflow from Patient Registration to Discharge

Background: We aim to present our experience with measures resulting in increased workflow efficiency in our clinical practice, and to evaluate the effect of these changes on the time elapsed at each stage of the workflow process and how it impact overall workflow efficiency. Method(s): We implemented a set of changes at each stage of the workflow process from patient registration, pre-operative workup, procedure, post-operative care, and discharge. Average time for completion of each stage of the process was determined before and after implementing the changes. Weekly case volume (WCV), weekly mean overtime hours (WMOH) and monthly percentage of first case on time (FCOT%) were compared before and after the intervention. Patient profiles including age, sex, and BMI where tracked to account for confounding variables. Student’s t-test was used to compare variables before and after intervention. F- test was used to compare variance before and after intervention. A p value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result(s): No statistically significant difference was seen in the age, sex or BMI of patient population before and after intervention (p>0.05). There was a statistically significant 20% increase in WCV from 200 to 240, 45% decrease in WMOH from 10.8 hours to 4.9 hours and 25% increase in monthly FCOT% from 50% to 75% (p<0.01). Conclusion(s): Our workflow intervention resulted in better WCV, WMOH and FCOT%. Improved workflow efficiency is critical in the success of an interventional radiology department, and results in better patient care and overall patient satisfaction.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
11. Mai 2021