Analyzing the variances helps to determine if changes to the program are needed, such as availability or location of the classes. The multi-disciplinary team approach in developing a pathway allows for input from all disciplines involved in the patient's care. This approach empowers the pathway team to evaluate existing processes. Physicians, nurses, pharmacists, physical therapist and other staff look for ways to research best practices, reduce inefficiences and eliminate non-value added tasks. By doing so, unnecessary use of resources and variability of care between patients is reduced.
Pathways are valuable to the patient in terms of overall satisfaction.
Not only do patients experience less anxiety because they are informed of what to expect, but they also feel a sense of partnership with their health care providers. Patients can direct their energies toward getting better and, as a result, they go home from the hospital sooner. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate we do better than our peers in terms of overall satisfaction. The results of the clinical pathways have been reduced costs, shortened lengths of stay, greater patient satisfaction and improved outcomes. For a listing of the pathways, select here.