Q: What are some of the ways that your ASC has addressed efficiency throughout your center? As a pediatrics-only ASC, were there any special considerations you had to examine when implementing these initiatives?
Stephanie Stinson: The key is to hire efficient, skilled, multi-tasking and self-motivated staff. [For a pediatrics-only ASC], they must love children! The majority of the staff here has a strong pediatric, neonatal background. They also love children and are mothers and fathers themselves.
Q: In what ways has your ASC addressed some of the needs and concerns of children and their parents so that it can maintain efficiency but keep patients and their families happy?
SS: You have to posses a lot of empathy and patience with the parents. A broad background and experience helps the staff relate and explain to parents and family members what to expect. Maintaining a calming pleasant demeanor goes a long way with the parents and children’s comfort level.
Q: Are there any other unique considerations for the pediatric population that relates to overall efficiency?
SS: Yes, you have to have more staff than with an adult ASC. Also, you need to keep things on [the children’s] level, from the environment to conversation.
Q: What else should ASCs keep in mind when treating pediatric patients?
SS: The main aspect to always keep in mind is you are treating the whole family not just the pediatric patient.
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