Cost reduction in cardiopulmonary and neurology services

A plan was developed and implemented to reduce costs per unit of service in three departments (pulmonary, cardiology, and neurology services), which resulted in a 19% reduction in cost per RVU over two years. These savings were attained primarily by a reduction of supplies and the redesign of work practices, which resulted in a reduction of both personnel and purchased service expenses. The departments have continued to improved the quality of services provided while reducing the costs of these services through this proactive approach to cost-containment.