Looking at GI Practice Management Differently: Fortify the Business of Healthcare in the GI Practice | November 2021-04

04 - Right-Sizing Striking the Balance_Ahwal

Pdf Summary

In this presentation, Kimberly Ahwal discusses the concept of rightsizing in GI practice management, particularly in relation to staffing levels and efficiency during the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasizes the need to match staffing levels to patient throughput and achieve efficiency. Ahwal introduces the concept of Full Time Equivalents (FTEs), which is a measure of staffing levels but not necessarily efficiency.<br /><br />She highlights the importance of having staff operate at the top of their license, meaning that each staff member performs tasks within their designated scope of practice. This involves identifying tasks in patient flow and grouping them based on licensure requirements to create job descriptions. Ahwal also discusses various tasks related to patient care and room preparation, emphasizing the need for proper use of cleaning agents, attention to detail, and adherence to PPE protocols.<br /><br />She mentions the importance of having a plan for contact tracing, post-procedure patient questionnaires, and compliance with PPE protocols. Ahwal raises questions about restroom cleaning, appropriate training for janitorial staff, and the implications for rightsizing.<br /><br />Ahwal concludes by stating that the increased cost associated with COVID-19 safety precautions may not be sustainable, and organizations may need to periodically review weighted staffing levels to achieve efficiency. She emphasizes the importance of staff performing at the top of their license and suggests that familiarity with new protocols may identify efficiency opportunities.<br /><br />Overall, the presentation emphasizes the need for GI practices to balance staffing and efficiency considerations during the COVID-19 pandemic, taking into account factors such as licensure requirements, safety precautions, and heightened cleaning protocols.

Keywords

rightsizing

GI practice management

staffing levels

efficiency

COVID-19 pandemic

Full Time Equivalents

top of their license

patient care

PPE protocols

cleaning agents