Furnished with fewer resources than hospitals, ASCs greatly benefit from technology that fosters safe and efficient environments. After assessing which elements of the ASC could benefit from upgrades, strategically pitch new technology and consider following the pack with some trending technology, like robotics.
Improving efficiency in outpatient setting
ASCs average 22 minutes less in operating turnover time than in acute care facilities, according to OR Manager.
However, ASCs can still improve efficiency with the following technologies.
- Tracking software: This technology allows providers to track a patient's progress. By monitoring the patient's progress, providers can identify which stages are slowing down the workflow.
- Online portals: Patient portals save time pre-operation, as patients input complications that nurses quickly address.
- Mobile devices: Mobile devices prove essential for communicating quickly between rooms, keeping nurses and physicians aware of situations in the surgery center.
- Monitors: Internet access and monitors allow physicians to easily view images on multiple screens, simultaneously.
- Scheduling: Scheduling becomes simple when ASCs use a software platform to schedule surgeries and send confirmations to patients.
- Front-office: Using advanced software on the business side will provide ease by the time of surgery. This software can eliminate double entries and allow easy accessibility of patient information.
- Supply chain: An automated system to manage device orders allows accurate tracking of materials and representatives entering the surgery center.
- Inventory: Supply companies place bar codes on products so surgery centers can easily record the number of supplies each surgeon needs.
Pitching new technology in ASCs
Pamela Ertel, director of the Reading Hospital SurgiCenter at Spring Ridge (Pa.) recommended certain strategies when presenting new technology to an ASC's board.
- Ask vendors to present products to the board, as they know the ins-and-outs of whatever they're selling. With an expert pitching the technology, board members will hopefully hear a persuasive and precise presentation.
- Be specific when showcasing the cost-effectiveness of the new product. Highlight expected true costs and soft savings, providing a realistic outlook of the technology's benefits and drawbacks.
- Draft a solid timeline that specifies exact tasks and positions. By forming a committee with members from each department, a strong force will already be in place to bring the product to fruition.
- Tackle possible concerns before they become reality. If an obvious challenge with the new technology exists, impress the board by presenting a solution during the pitch.
- Keep physician offices in the loop as they will be the strongest advocates for technologies that simplify their day. Further, if healthcare providers don't understand the benefits or how to use the technology, they won't use it and it will flop.
Playing the robotic game
ASCs are starting to dip their toes into the advanced technological field of robotics.
Jess Lonner, MD, of Rothman Institute in Philadelphia, shared her thoughts on robotic technology in ASCs during a Becker's Healthcare webinar.
More than 30 percent of the Blue Belt Technologies' Navio Surgical Systems are currently in outpatient surgery centers. Dr. Lonner believes the robotic technology market will continue to grow as more companies enter the market.
The Blue Belt Technologies' Navio system includes the following features.
- Eliminates need for CT-scans
- Utilizes handheld robotic instrument
- Intraoperative registers, maps, plans
- Incorporates intraoperative gap balancing
- Uses burr speed/exposure control robotic control modes
The technology is cost-effective, too. Dr. Lonner said ASCs can break-even with the Navio robotic technology, with a return on investment after 60 cases.
Ultimately, if healthcare providers do not understand how to use the technology, it becomes more of a hindrance. Technology training is therefore, critical.
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