A Blended Transfer and Communications Center: Designing a State-of-the-Art Mission Control.

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Healthcare Management
• Operations Management

Background:

• Health systems face challenges with patient flow and transfer intake processes.
• Inefficiencies can lead to delays and impact patient care and operational costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation and impact of a centralized transfer and communications center.
• To evaluate the effect of this model on patient throughput, customer service, and operational efficiency.

Main Methods:

• Establishment of a "Mission Control" center integrating physical space, collaborative education, and technology.
• Implementation of an electronic throughput and flow software system for real-time capacity and discharge updates.

Main Results:

• The centralized model demonstrated immediate positive impacts on patient throughput and customer service.
• The center enhanced coordination for patient transport and hospital management.
• The operations center is increasingly vital for emergency operations and disaster management logistics.

Conclusions:

• Centralizing key health system throughput components is an emerging best practice.
• This approach offers potential revenue savings through resource consolidation and efficiency gains.
• The model's success supports expansion to other departments and broader operational roles.