Admission: the consumer's first impression

In today's changing healthcare economy, it's critical for a hospital to attract and retain a client base. The healthcare consumer's choice of hospital is based on their perception of the quality of care. Although virtually all hospitals espouse excellence in care, the consumer's perception must agree or they will go elsewhere. First impression of the hospital begins with admission. This article describes the interactive approach taken by Northside Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia to solve admission/discharge problems.