1. Monitor and maximize scheduling. Our facility uses block scheduling, and we monitor utilization on a regular basis. We have the ability to flex our blocks based on physicians’ utilization, and we analyze their usage based on average case time. This ensures we have used the physicians’ schedules efficiently and have dedicated enough time to meeting the physicians’ needs. We also focus heavily on room turnover and take a team approach to performing it quickly. By improving our efficiency, we have been able to increase patient volume.
2. Standardize processes across physicians. There was a time when each specialist had his or her own discharge and post-op orders, but by standardizing these procedures across the specialties, we were able to improve efficiency. This measure also helps in cross-training staff members, as it simplifies the information they must learn.
3. Streamline supplies and equipment, and look for non-traditional arrangements. We have worked with our surgeons to standardize the supplies used in procedures, allowing us to consolidate our purchasing with a small number of vendors and negotiate better pricing. For items such as implants that are unique to a particular procedure, we have negotiated for best pricing as well. This practice alone has saved us a significant amount of money in a short period of time. Our average supply cost-per-case in 2010 is more than 15 percent lower than in 2009. We have also outsourced with an ophthalmic services provider, Sightpath Medical, which provides us with the equipment and supplies we use for cataract procedures on a cost-per-case basis, allowing us to avoid capital investments and maintenance fees.
4. Implement electronic health records. We are currently in the process of identifying and transitioning to an EHR system, and we anticipate that the greater efficiency enabled by this measure will save approximately $225,000 annually. Our paper-based system currently generates over 20 sheets of paper per patient, which we look forward to making a thing of the past. With consolidated health records and electronic signatures, we expect to reduce expenses significantly.
5. Cross-train and utilize per diem staff. We utilize a pool of per diem staff who can be brought in to help accommodate peaks in volume without hiring additional benefitted staff. Our agreement with Sightpath Medical helps save money in staffing as well, as the company sends its own National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting-certified technicians to assist in surgeries. This frees up our staff to attend to other duties. Additionally, our full-time staff members are trained to work not just in our facility, but also at the adjacent GI center, which allows us to float personnel between the two facilities.
Read more ways to reduce costs in ASCs:
– Guidance to Calculate OR Utilization Costs and Reduce Them: Q&A With Ann Geier of ASCOA
– 4 Best Practices to Reduce Costs in Hospital-Owned ASCs
– 8 Things an ASC Can Do to Improve Operations and Drive Stronger Results
