And why it needs to be done regularly
The Power Supply Podcast recently interviewed Drew Preslar to discuss the importance of data utilization and change management in healthcare. The conversation focuses on the challenges faced by clinicians and healthcare organizations, and how optimizing preference cards can improve patient outcomes and unlock efficiencies and cost savings. Drew also discusses key strategies to improve data accuracy in driving healthcare transformation. You can listen to the conversation here:
The Importance of Data Utilization and Accurate Documentation
Everyone agrees that it’s crucial for healthcare organizations to have accurate data and documentation to ensure the best care delivery for patients. Inaccurate or incomplete documentation can lead to miscommunication, errors, and inefficiencies in patient care. Drew points out the need for healthcare organizations to take specific steps to validate their data and ensure that it is accurate. A good way to do this is to look at gaps between preference cards and clinical documentation, and focus on high-cost items with higher variations in documentation and utilization.
Preference Cards are often overlooked, but crucial
Preference cards are essential tools for clinicians, as they provide a detailed list of the supplies, equipment, and instruments needed for a specific surgical procedure. Ironically, they are often overlooked or taken for granted.
However, an accurate and up-to-date preference card can significantly enhance the efficiency of the surgical process and improve patient outcomes. Thus, some form of regular review is critical for ensuring up to date products and processes are in place. When preference cards are not accurate or complete, little inefficiencies can significantly increase costs.
Involving clinicians in the creation, review, and updating of preference cards can help ensure that the information is accurate, relevant, and aligned with their needs. It also helps them see that individual preferences do not always mean better outcomes. Therefore, involving clinicians in the process can foster a sense of ownership and accountability, promoting better adherence to the documented preferences.\
The Power of Change Management
One of the main challenges in implementing change management in healthcare is overcoming resistance to change. This resistance often stems from a lack of understanding about the benefits of the proposed changes and fear of the unknown.
To overcome resistance, it is crucial to engage all stakeholders in the process, clearly communicate the reasons behind the changes and the benefits they will bring. In addition, providing adequate training and support to ensure that staff can adapt to the new processes and systems is essential in facilitating a smooth transition.
Share Email
