POCUS for Improved Workflow Efficiency: Reducing Wait Times and Enhancing Productivity

A recent Harris Poll revealed one of Americans’ biggest complaints with the U.S. healthcare system: inefficiency. Over 30% of those surveyed agreed that “it takes to long to get an appointment.” While there are many factors leading to long wait times, getting an ultrasound may no longer be one of them.

Point-of-Care Ultrasounds (POCUS) are by their very nature portable, fast, and relatively affordable. Let’s explore a few ways why they are leading to increased efficiency, reducing wait times and enhancing overall productivity in medicine.

Standardized Protocol for POCUS Best Practices

The most obvious advantage offered by POCUS is the ability to produce informative ultrasound images at a moment’s notice, whether you’re in an emergency department or a sports medicine clinic — and everything in between.

The imagery can then be analyzed in real time, and shared amongst medical staff from various departments to form a more comprehensive patient profile. Internal bleeding, organ dysfunction, or other prominent abnormalities can be diagnosed without ionizing radiation.

Reducing Wait Times Through Triage and Treatment

Across our country and around the world there are issues with access to diagnostic imaging modalities like Computed Tomography (CT scans) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRIs). Not only are there access issues — especially in rural areas — there are other issues, due to minimal amounts of equipment, length of exams, lack of technologists etc.

Meanwhile, a recent study indicated that Emergency Medicine residents took an average of 6 min to perform a POCUS exam. If front-line practitioners are equipped with the skills to perform quality POCUS, there will be a weight lifted off of the medical imaging departments. Additionally, patients will get triaged faster and more effectively.

Standardized Protocols and Information Sharing

The ability to quickly perform a diagnostic and share the results in a collaborative manner is what makes POCUS so revolutionary. But if we want improved workflows and efficiency, we also need a standard set of protocols and best practices. Implementing these can be easier said than done, but with the right vision and policies in place – enhanced via proper training and education – processes can be streamlined and patient outcomes are likely to improve.

Below, find a few suggestions for ensuring a seamless, efficient POCUS integration.

Recommended Best Practices and Example Workflow

Standardized documentation and access to patient files, the ability to share images cross-functionally and store them securely, and a quality assurance process come together to ensure high-quality imaging. Here’s a sample workflow to get your team started:

1. Practitioner will determine if there is a clinical question that can be answered with the use of POCUS.

2. If there is, important information must be documented appropriately: Patient identifiers, a facility’s identifying information, date and time of ultrasound, output, etc.

3. Display standards (TI and MI), are placed into ultrasound system.

4. Necessary images are acquired, dependent upon exam type and labelled as necessary.

5. Anatomic location and image orientation should be included where needed.

6. Images should be uploaded via a high-quality Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS).

7. Documentation (perhaps including a reporting template) should be set in an Electornic Medical Record system (EMR).

8. The Hospital Billing and Coding Department will look for key identifiers in the documentation to assign appropriate Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes for POCUS exams.

9. QI/QA will be performed monthly on images and associated clinical correlations.

Of course, every organization is different – but establishing a solid workflow is step one to a simpler healthcare system – one that could impress even the most impatient Harris Poll respondent.

Transform Your Ultrasound Training Today!

Whether you’re starting your POCUS journey, enhancing practical skills, or needing ongoing mentorship, Aeyr offers tailored solutions to meet your needs. Discover how our comprehensive POCUS training can empower your team and elevate your program.

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