Reducing the length of clinic visits: A process analysis case report

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Process Improvement
• Patient Flow Optimization

Background:

• The University of Houston Student Health Center faced high demand exceeding appointment availability.
• Average patient visit cycle time was 70 minutes, significantly longer than scheduled 20-minute appointments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To streamline the clinic visit process by identifying and addressing inefficiencies.
• To reduce patient visit cycle time and increase patient throughput.

Main Methods:

• Process analysis using Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to identify waste.
• Evaluation of potential solutions using a prioritization matrix.
• Development and deployment of a frequently asked questions (FAQ) video for international students.

Main Results:

• FMEA identified patient questions unrelated to immediate care as a primary cause of extended visits.
• Implementation of the FAQ video reduced average clinic visit time by over 15%.
• The clinic increased its capacity by accommodating nearly 100 additional patient visits per month.

Conclusions:

• Process analysis and targeted interventions, such as educational videos, can significantly improve healthcare clinic efficiency.
• Addressing patient-specific needs, like information gaps, is crucial for optimizing patient flow.
• Streamlining clinic operations enhances patient access to care and increases service capacity.