Cross-Site Scheduling of Endoscopic Procedures Improves Efficiency While Maintaining Patient Safety

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Healthcare Management
• Endoscopic Procedure Scheduling

Background:

• Complex procedure scheduling often requires specialized knowledge.
• Technology can aid non-medically trained professionals in scheduling.
• Multisite academic medical institutions face unique scheduling challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess if a single coordinator could effectively schedule endoscopic procedures across multiple sites using new computer technology.
• To determine if this approach improves overall clinic efficiency.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary team developed a cross-site scheduling model.
• Procedures suitable for scheduling by non-trained coordinators were identified.
• A pilot study with gastroenterology staff preceded a broader rollout.

Main Results:

• A significant decrease in call volumes was observed.
• Average speed to answer (ASA) decreased from over 100 seconds to 38 seconds.
• 115 hours of manpower were saved due to increased scheduling efficiency.

Conclusions:

• The new technology led to substantial time and cost savings through improved call volume and ASA.
• Collaborative involvement of workgroups ensured positive reception of the changes.
• This technological approach is adaptable to other disciplines requiring specialized scheduling knowledge.