Implementation of a Clinical Pathway in the Cardiology Service.
Abstract
In an effort to increase efficiencies and cut unnecessary costs, Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC) has implemented various Utilization Management (UM) initiatives. One of the major initiatives was the implementation of various clinical pathways throughout the hospital. This project conducted a review of the first comprehensive pathways implemented in WRAMC's Cardiology Services. Specifically the projected reviewed impact of implementing a clinical pathway on the average length of stay (ALOS) for two diagnosis-related groups (DRGs). The two groups were unstable angina (DRG 140) and chest pain/rule out myocardial infraction (MI) (DRG 143). A regression analysis was conducted following the review of the data 6 months prior and 6 months after the implementation of the pathways. The analysis revealed a statistically significant decrease in the ALOS for 2.63 days to 2.17 days equating to over $60,000 in savings in the first 6 months of implementation. Besides the deceased ALOS, WRAMC experienced other benefits to include; increased efficiencies that carried over to other services, an organized methodology to identify patient care issues, and an increased communication among staff members.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA372195
Entities
People
- Daniel J. Fisher
Organizations
- Walter Reed Army Medical Center