With Alternative 4, a trained surveyor conducts an on-site review of a facility's response to a sentinel event. Those who accept will be asked to work in a UPMC facility for 2 years. Best foot forward Health care reform is a key issue of this year's presidential campaign. A An open access model requires a thorough needs assessment to best configure clinician time, patient panels, and appointment availability that matches the population served. This creates many operational and systems challenges such as redefining roles and responsibilities, creating innovative patient appointment schedules, and maximizing efficient clinic flow.
Various formulas calculate appropriate panel size and profile.
Formulas for determining whether current capacity is adequate to meet patient demand also exist. When implementing an open access model, be sure to recognize the potential impact on other departments. For example, moving from a system of future appointment scheduling to same-day service demands a quicker turnaround of transcription, filing, and chart delivery for a complete patient record to be available at the time of visit. Don't underestimate cultural change as a challenge to systems change. Leaders must concentrate efforts on communicating expectations, education, and performance management to build consensus and commitment.