Overcoming the barriers to implementing patient-focused care.
Potential barriers to implementing PFC sometimes seem enormous. Instead of orienting toward problems associated with implementing PFC, we can eliminate some of the barriers simply by focusing on and pursuing the ideal, "the seamless patient care experience." Fundamentally improving our health care delivery systems is not really a strategic option. It is our responsibility. We must do things better, faster, with more compassion, and at less cost. What evidence will demonstrate that your organization is becoming more patient-focused? Patients will not be inconvenienced because of "how the system works." They will consider your organization "best in class." They will know that the hospital's medical care and services will meet or exceed their expectations. Physicians and staff will feel more highly valued by the organization. Management empowers them by improving the systems they must use, providing ongoing training, and decentralizing the authority they need to deliver excellent medical care and satisfy patients' personal needs. Communication improves vertically and horizontally throughout the organization. The hospital becomes increasingly attractive to employers and HMOs. Reengineered processes result in increases in productivity. Better patient outcomes, at less cost, can be demonstrated. Occupancy rates stabilize or grow, utilization is carefully managed, and improvements in the bottom line strengthen the organization. How do we make these visions a reality? By committing to PFC and getting started right away. Just as "quality" is multidimensional, so must be our operating strategy. Patient-focused care is the model that will redefine the future of health care.
McQueen
J
J
Quality Forum, Baltimore, MD.
D003266:Continuity of Patient Care / Q000458:organization & administration; D006739:Hospital Administration / Q000379:methods*; D015285:Hospital-Patient Relations; D007857:Leadership; D017146:Models, Organizational; D010344:Patient Advocacy / Q000592:standards*; D011340:Problem Solving; D016730:Program Development; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration; D014481:United States