Implementing Resident Team Assistant Programs at Academic Medical Centers: Lessons Learned.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Administration
• Medical Education
• Physician Well-being

Background:

• Excessive administrative tasks in inpatient settings negatively impact residents and patients.
• Physician burnout, characterized by depersonalization, is linked to high administrative burdens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the creation, implementation, and evaluation of Resident Team Assistant (RTA) programs.
• To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and initial outcomes of RTA initiatives.

Main Methods:

• Three academic medical centers developed RTA programs, integrating administrative assistants into medical teams.
• Needs assessments, driver diagrams, and regular stakeholder meetings guided program development.
• Surveys and interviews evaluated program impact, acceptability, and alignment with institutional goals.

Main Results:

• RTAs effectively handle administrative duties, increasing resident time in direct patient care and job satisfaction.
• Hospitals saw improved referring physician communication and fewer work hour violations.
• Programs demonstrated high feasibility and sustainability with minimal leadership time and institutional cost.

Conclusions:

• RTA programs are sustainable, reducing resident administrative burden and enhancing job satisfaction.
• These initiatives are highly acceptable and feasible for healthcare institutions regarding effort and cost.