Five critical strategies for achieving operational efficiency

• Published in: Journal of healthcare management 2004-09, Vol.49 (5), p.289-292
• Main Authors: Hejna, William J, Hosking, James E
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Communication; Company business management; Corporate culture; Efficiency; Efficiency, Organizational; Guidelines; Health administration; Health care industry; Hospital Administration - methods; Hospital Design and Construction; Hospitals; Information technology; Leadership; Management; Materials management; Objectives; Operating costs; Organizational Objectives; Patient satisfaction; Planning; Services; United States
• ISSN: 1096-9012; 1944-7396
• DOI: 10.1097/00115514-200409000-00004

In a recent report that summarizes the reasons that hospitals undertake construction projects, operational efficiency and patient flow are cited as the most common objectives. Research conducted by TriBrook Healthcare Consultants shows that expected improvements in operational efficiency are often achieved in replacement facilities but that such enhancements are not obtained in all cases and are often attributable as much to increased service volumes as they are to fundamental positive changes in service delivery systems. There are five specific strategies that are essential for an organization that is targeting improved operational efficiency. 1. Establish a clear and compelling vision and expectation for the facility project. 2. Assess current operations to identify opportunities for improvement. 3. Undertake a structured, operations-driven facility planning process. 4. Foster broad participation and ownership in the planning process. 5. Maintain a focus on the hospital's existing strategic growth and performance improvement agenda.