Mr. Estes said benchmarking within any specialty ASC involves the identifying, measuring and analyzing of three groups of data: clinical, operational and financial.
Clinical benchmarking data includes on-time start rates, post-op follow-up calls, adverse events and different quality metrics. Mr. Estes says ASCs are entering into an age where quality figures are going to be widespread, specifically regarding infection rates and patient satisfaction. It’s crucial that GI centers stay ahead of the curve, begin benchmarking and then compare their data to other GI centers, he said.
Operational benchmarking data includes patient volume, utilization rates by physician, room and day and staffing levels. Financial benchmarking figures are pretty commonplace among all ASCs, which include net revenue, net earnings and total expenses. However, Mr. Estes said while GI centers should monitor their financial data, it shouldn’t be the only focus. Tracking and improving upon quality, clinical and operational benchmarking figures is the core of any ASC, and financial improvements will come automatically if a GI center focuses on its core quality measures.
“If you truly manage the basics of your GI center and if you obsess about quality, that in itself will lead to success — not just clinically, but also in the financial standpoints,” Mr. Estes said. “That involves putting that [mindset] into your staff and leading by example.”
Related Articles on GI Centers:
How to Increase Open Access GI Procedures
5 Tips for Updating a GI Center’s Technology
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.