Improving agency productivity

The home care industry is being challenged by many changes, most notably an abrupt reorientation in HCFA reimbursement policy. One way agencies can combat the dwindling flow of funds is to improve labor productivity by performing more home visits with the same staff. Health care professionals have not traditionally embraced this concept, but the emphasis on cost containment makes "productivity-mindedness" a requirement. A sensitive, open process will help staff realize that quality of care and and cost-consciousness are not mutually exclusive. Carefully structured productivity tools can help provide agencies with the information they need to make better plans and decisions. A productivity improvement program, carefully planned and implemented by enlightened, enthusiastic management in cooperation with staff, can provide agencies with the benefits of improved efficiency. Such a program also provides agency leaders with the means to turn the challenge of providing quality care with fewer resources into new agency opportunities.