Block Time Analysis

Problem Identified

A surgical service assigned two blocks is historically under utilizing its assigned times in both blocks. The service’s surgeons are skeptical of the data produced by the OR department showing their poor performance. The result is loss of prime time capacity and revenue for the OR department.

Solution Implemented

The minute-by-minute tracking of patients was implemented in concert with the broad acceptance and use of a dynamic schedule by over 20 different departments and groups across the medical center. Clear graphical displays of block utilization statistics were developed allowing surgeon groups and hospital administrators to view and discuss performance at the end of each day, week, month, and quarter.

Benefits Documented

Surgeons acknowledge that they now believe that the data being presented is accurate. Furthermore, constructive dialog has led to changes in surgeon behavior and the reallocation of block times among surgeons and surgical groups. One of the two blocks was expanded to accommodate all of the service’s cases. The second block was reassigned to another service to meet its growing demand. The implemented solution has contributed to a 30% increase in case volumes and reductions in staff overtime.