Patients with oxygen needs were not always identi fied, which resulted in a negative impact on their quality of life. Lack of oxygen contributed to several medical issues that included slowed healing, fatigue and
heart complications.
Increase the average number of pulse oximetery orders for patients with oxygen needs from an average of 1 per month to a goal of 4 per month by June 1st, 2011, ensuring our patients are receiving the highest quality of care possible.
Post-implementation results demonstrate a 350% improvement in patients seen per month with oxygen needs translating to $1,127/month or $13,524/year in additional revenue.
- Identified the root cause for pulse oximetery underutilization was a lack of protocol
- Outlined pulse oximetery test criteria, which identifi es when and why the test should be ordered
- Established an order in Electronic Health Record so physician may place orders-this allows for the pulse oximetery care to be a scheduled procedure
- Test results are now available in electronic format
- Charges are auto generated eliminating the opportunity for missed charges
- Results are filtered into the medical record allowing more timely physician access
Recently, one of our patients complained of fatigue and not feeling well. Following the newly established criteria, her provider ordered an overnight pulse oximetery. The test revealed the patient experienced 6.5 hours of below 90% oxygen levels explaining her complaints. The test results qualfii ed the patient to receive oxygen and obtain equipment for home use. Her condition and quality of life was much improved in a follow-up visit to our center.
For more information please contact:
Lynn Valz
Lean Operations/ Director
Lynn.Valz@ctca-hope.com
