Improving Quality and Safety In Your Endoscopy Unit: On-Demand | October 2022 OLQUALOCT22-07_Srivastava

07_Srivastava_Efficiency

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In this document, Dr. Neetika Srivastava discusses the importance of improving efficiency in the endoscopy unit. She emphasizes that efficiency is the use of available resources to maximize the production of goods and services. There is a lack of published studies on efficiency in endoscopy, and the current research has limitations, such as focusing only on one procedure and only examining physician efficiency. The research suggests that reducing procedure time does not enhance efficiency; instead, operational flow and staffing are more important factors.<br /><br />Dr. Srivastava highlights several areas that can be improved to enhance efficiency in the endoscopy unit. These include facility information technology, staff metrics, workflow processes, and cultural beliefs. Facility improvements may involve optimizing the design of pre-procedure, procedure, and recovery rooms to maximize patient flow and resource utilization. Staffing models should be evaluated based on state and local regulations, and the use of dedicated endoscope technicians can improve room turnover.<br /><br />Integrated information technology, such as a single integrated electronic medical record, can help monitor and track patient flow and strive towards a paperless system. Measuring various factors, such as structure, process, and outcome, is important to assess efficiency. Understanding patient flow and minimizing delays, both patient and physician-related, can streamline workflow processes.<br /><br />Maximizing procedure volume can be achieved through factors such as reducing room turnover time and minimizing post-procedure paperwork. Cultural beliefs in the endoscopy unit, such as emphasizing teamwork, adaptability, flexibility, and clear communication, are also essential for efficiency.<br /><br />Leadership plays a crucial role in improving efficiency. Leaders should examine current systems, recognize the need for improvement, articulate a vision, and create alignment. In conclusion, clear and measurable definitions of efficiency, optimization of operational systems, streamlining processes, and strong leadership with a culture of teamwork and change are key to improving efficiency in the endoscopy unit.

Keywords

endoscopy unit

efficiency

resource utilization

operational flow

staffing

facility information technology

workflow processes

cultural beliefs

patient flow

leadership