HOSPITAL TOUR: Makati Medical Center's OSS relieves emergency and surgical room congestion

 In the bustling heart of the Philippines' financial district lies a medical institution that is a testament to innovation and dedication in the field of medicine - the Makati Medical Center. The hospital, known for its commitment to providing world-class healthcare services, recently implemented a breakthrough solution to address the long-standing problem of overcrowding in emergency rooms (ERs) and surgical theatres. The implementation of the Operating Suite Scheduling (OSS) system not only made operations more efficient, but also significantly improved patient care and overall efficiency within the hospital.

ER and doctor's office overload call

Overcrowded emergency and surgical rooms are a constant challenge for healthcare facilities around the world. Patients facing life-threatening emergencies often wait a long time, leading to delays in critical treatment. Meanwhile, surgical procedures, whether elective or emergency, are often delayed due to the unavailability of operating theaters or difficulties in coordinating surgical teams.

Makati Medical Center, a leading health care provider in the Philippines, was not immune to these problems. Despite its reputation for excellence, it faced similar challenges related to overcrowding in ERs and operating rooms, which negatively impacted patient care and operational efficiency.

The Innovation: Operating Suite Scheduling (OSS) System

Recognizing the need for a game-changing solution, Makati Medical Center took a bold step forward by implementing an Operating Suite Scheduling (OSS) system. Developed in collaboration with health technology experts, the OSS system uses state-of-the-art software and real-time data analysis to optimize the allocation of surgical resources.

Key features of the OSS system:

Real-time scheduling: The OSS system works in real-time and allows for dynamic scheduling adjustments based on the urgency and complexity of surgical cases.

Prioritization of urgent cases: Life-threatening emergencies are given the highest priority, ensuring that critical patients receive immediate attention.

Resource allocation: The system efficiently allocates surgical teams, equipment and operating rooms, reducing downtime and maximizing productivity.

Data-Driven Insights: The OSS system collects and analyzes data about surgical procedures and helps hospital administrators make informed decisions to further improve efficiency.

Communication and coordination: Improved communication channels between surgical teams, anesthesiologists and other support staff facilitate seamless coordination.

Reduced wait times: Patients waiting for surgery, whether elective or emergency, experience shorter wait times, resulting in improved overall patient satisfaction.

Impacts on patient care and hospital operations

The implementation of the OSS system at Makati Medical Center has brought significant benefits to both patients and hospital staff.

1. Improved patient outcomes:

Patients arriving at the emergency room are now given immediate attention, resulting in faster diagnosis and treatment. Critical, potentially life-saving operations are underway immediately.

2. Increased operational efficiency:

The OSS system has optimized use of resources, reduces operating room downtime and eliminates the need for excessive overtime for hospital staff. It brought cost savings to the hospital.

3. Increased patient satisfaction:

Shorter wait times for both emergency and elective surgeries have contributed to increased patient satisfaction scores and cemented Makati Medical Center's reputation as a patient-centered institution.

4. Decision-making based on data:

Data collection and performance analysis through OSS enabled hospital administrators to make informed decisions and further improve operational processes.

5. Improved Reputation:

The successful implementation of the OSS system has gained the attention of healthcare professionals and institutions worldwide, making Makati Medical Center a leader in healthcare innovation.

Makati Medical Center's adoption of Operating Suite Scheduling (OSS) has been a game-changer in the healthcare industry, providing a solution to the persistent problem of ER and surgical suite congestion. This innovative system not only improves patient care, but also improves operational efficiency and cost effectiveness.

As healthcare institutions around the world grapple with the complexities of managing patient flow and resources, the example of the Makati Medical Center serves as an inspiring case study of the effective use of technology to address these challenges. It emphasizes the importance of innovation and the commitment of health care providers to continuously improve the quality of care they offer to their communities.