PURPOSE
This quality improvement project aimed at addressing the issue of long waiting times in the hematology/ oncology clinic at Stratton VA Medical Center, aiming to improve the delivery time of infusion drugs and enhance patient care.
BACKGROUND
Patient feedback indicated that long waiting times were a significant barrier to care, with 32% of patients identifying this as an issue. Prolonged wait times in the healthcare setting can have various negative consequences, including increased patient dissatisfaction, reduced patient engagement, compromised patient safety, and increased healthcare costs.
METHODS
An interdisciplinary team comprising physicians, nurses, and pharmacists conducted a study to identify the primary contributors to extended wait times. Inadequate preparation for patients with complex infusion needs and delays in administering premedications were identified as the key factors. Wait times were measured using two variables: Go To Label Print (GTLP) and Go To First Bag Scanned (GTFS). Baseline data were collected showing a median GTLP of 8 minutes and a median GTFS of 67 minutes.
DATA ANALYSIS
The team analyzed real-time data related to wait times and the impact of interventions.
RESULTS
Two interventions were implemented: 1) redistributing patients with complex needs across the schedule and 2) adding premedications to the automated medication dispensing system. Postintervention analysis revealed a significant improvement in wait times. The median GTLP decreased to 2 minutes, and the median GTFS reduced to 53 minutes, representing a 75% improvement in GTLP and a 21% improvement in GTFS. These changes are estimated to save 303 patient hours annually.
IMPLICATIONS
This quality improvement project highlighted the significance of addressing long wait times, as they can significantly impact patient care. The team’s efforts, including the analysis of real-time data, interprofessional collaboration, and the implementation of sustainable changes through Plan-Do- Study-Act cycles, successfully improved infusion drug delivery time. These findings and interventions can serve as a model for other healthcare facilities seeking to streamline workflow in infusion centers and enhance patient care.
