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

04 - Right-Sizing Striking the Balance_Ahwal

Pdf Summary

In this presentation by Kimberly Ahwal, the concept of "rightsizing" in GI practice management is discussed. "Rightsizing" refers to matching staffing levels to patient throughput in order to achieve efficiency. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increased need to staff up to provide care in a safe environment, even as case frequency has decreased. The concept of "operating at the top of their license" is also explored, where staff are assigned tasks according to their licensure requirements. This helps maximize efficiency by ensuring that staff are performing tasks that align with their skills and training. The presentation also addresses various aspects of patient care, such as pre-visit screening, room preparation and cleaning, contact tracing, and compliance with PPE protocols. These safety precautions may increase expenses for practices in the foreseeable future. The importance of periodically reviewing staffing levels and identifying efficiency opportunities is emphasized. The concept of "weighted" FTEs (Full Time Equivalents) is introduced as a more effective measure of efficiency. The presentation concludes with the reminder that even organizations that were efficient before COVID-19 may struggle with the additional labor costs associated with adapting to the "new normal."

Keywords

rightsizing

GI practice management

staffing levels

efficiency

COVID-19 pandemic

safe environment

patient care

compliance

PPE protocols

labor costs