Optimize Orthopedic Surgical: Enhance Patient Care for Fractures and Recovery in Corona, California

What operational challenges were you facing?

• We were encountering several challenges, particularly in managing the flow of patients and the scheduling process.
• There were frequent scheduling conflicts, and coordinating between the surgery center, anesthesia, and staff was a complex task.
• Additionally, we struggled with patient communication and follow-ups, which sometimes led to delays in pre-surgical assessments or post-op instructions.
  

Were there inefficiencies in scheduling, patient management, or other areas?

• Yes, scheduling was a major inefficiency.
• It was often difficult to find optimal slots for surgeries due to overlapping procedures, changing patient needs, and the availability of specialists.
• Patient management also had room for improvement, especially when it came to tracking progress post-surgery and ensuring that pre-op instructions were fully communicated and followed.

How did we help improve your workflow?

• The introduction of a more integrated scheduling system was a game-changer.
• We moved to a centralized, digital scheduling tool that allowed better visibility into surgeon, staff, and facility availability.
• Additionally, improving the communication system for patient reminders and follow-ups drastically reduced no-shows and missed appointments.
• These changes helped align the schedule better, reducing downtime and improving surgical efficiency.

What solutions did we implement to streamline operations?

• To streamline operations, we implemented an updated electronic health record (EHR) system that integrated with the scheduling software.
• We also incorporated automated patient communications (reminders, follow-up instructions), which helped ensure better preparation and follow-through.
• Real-time updates to patient statuses were introduced, improving coordination among the surgical team and reducing patient wait times.
  

How was the collaboration process?

• The collaboration process was smooth, thanks to open lines of communication and flexibility.
• We were able to engage with the team early on to highlight our pain points and provide feedback throughout the process.
• The team made sure to tailor the solutions to fit our specific needs, and we felt heard at every step.

How did we ensure smooth adoption of new systems or processes?

• We implemented a phased approach to the new systems.
• This gave our staff the time to get accustomed to the changes without overwhelming them.
• We also had training sessions and support from your team to ensure everyone was on board.
• Clear communication about the benefits and ease of use helped reduce resistance to change.
  

Did we help address any obstacles along the way?

• Yes, one of the obstacles was the initial resistance to new technologies, particularly from staff who were more accustomed to the old ways.
• The training and ongoing support were key in addressing these concerns, and we were able to gradually transition without disrupting patient care or workflow.
• Since implementing the changes, we’ve seen a significant reduction in scheduling conflicts and an increase in operating room utilization.
• There have been fewer cancellations and better patient flow.
• The staff has become more efficient in managing patient information, and we’ve experienced an overall boost in morale.

 

Have you seen improvements in efficiency, patient satisfaction, or cost savings?

• Absolutely. Efficiency has improved due to the streamlined scheduling and patient management systems, and this has led to higher throughput with fewer delays.
• Patient satisfaction has also increased, especially with the clear communication about their care process and less waiting time.
• In terms of cost savings, we’ve seen a reduction in administrative costs due to automation and less waste in scheduling.

Do you have any feedback on how our solution impacted your center?

• The solution has had a positive impact overall. It has addressed many of the issues we faced with scheduling and patient management.
• The software’s user-friendly interface was easy for the team to adopt, and it’s made a tangible difference in how smoothly the center operates day to day.
• The benefits are ongoing.
• The improved patient flow, fewer errors in scheduling, and better communication have kept things running more smoothly.
• We continue to see improved time management in surgeries and a more satisfied patient population, which in turn has improved our reputation and referral base.