Revolutionizing Surgical Practices By Going Paperless
Pacific Surgical Center witnessed a transformational journey with HST Practice Management and HST eChart, which allowed their center to reduce their paper usage by almost 100%.
After implementing HST, this facility witnessed:
- Nearly 100% reduction in paper usage
- Increased efficiency and time savings
- Streamlined pre-op processes
# of Centers: 1
# of ORs: 2
Featured Products: HST Practice Management, HST eChart
Products in Use: HST Practice Management, HST eChart
State(s): WA
Customer Type: ASC
Specialties: Multi-specialty
The Challenge
Before the implementation of HST, PSC was heavily reliant on paper documentation. This resulted in inefficiencies and time-consuming processes. Furthermore, keeping up with pre-op calls was a challenge.
The absence of an electronic health record (EHR) platform posed a significant challenge, as the reliance on paper documentation was proving to be inefficient and time-consuming. The need to eliminate paper and improve efficiency was evident, but the solution seemed elusive. Jennifer shared an example of their charting room, where the receptionists would put together charts prior to a case, in which they had stacks of paper that several reams of paper tall.
Moreover, the task of keeping up with pre-op calls was daunting and was often left unfinished due to the inefficiencies of the previous process. The lack of technological advancements and the static nature of paper charting made it difficult for the facility to keep pace with the evolving needs of healthcare.
The Solution
By transitioning to HST Practice Management and HST eChart, PSC Longview was able to create a paperless environment. Nursing staff now utilize iPads for their work, thus increasing their efficiency. Doctors adapted to using HST quickly and with a minimal learning curve. The implementation process was well-supported by assigned Super-Users, which helped ensure a smooth transition. PSC highly valued the ability to customize the platform and make changes on the fly to match their existing chart format.
Remarkable improvements were noted once the transition to HST was completed. The pressing need for paper charts was eliminated and a significant reduction in administrative tasks such as creating chart packs was observed. This allowed the nursing staff to become more efficient and free up time for other tasks.
In terms of financial impact, cost savings were observed in office supplies expenses. The process of implementing HST was well-organized and efficient, causing minimal interruption to the facility’s operations. The training provided by HST was highly appreciated, and the availability of recorded training sessions and a community portal proved beneficial.
We like the flexibility point of HST eChart where we can make it look like our chart. It wasn’t that big of a jump for our nursing staff and doctors because it flows the way we want it to, and if it doesn’t, we can change it ourselves. We were the only ones still on paper… so it was an absolute no-brainer to switch to HST eChart.
Jennifer Myers
Business Administrator, Pacific Surgical Center
The Results
The implementation of HST allowed for quicker completion of tasks, including stocking implants during surgeries. The facility has now eliminated paper completely. There has been a significant improvement in efficiency and time savings, resulting in PSC being completely caught up on pre-op calls.
HST’s customer service received high praise for its responsiveness and willingness to find answers. The mobility provided by HST’s products, including tablets and mobile access, contributed significantly to enhancing efficiency and improving communication with doctors. The learning curve for the doctors was not steep, leading to a swift adaptation to the usage of HST.
We do all our pre-op calls and the pre-op visits in house. That is a huge chunk of our nursing staff. We are now at a stopping point where we are completely caught up and I don’t think that has ever happened before. I know that is a direct result of having HST eChart.
Jennifer Myers
Business Administrator, Pacific Surgical Center
The Future
In the future, PSC Longview is planning on utilizing HST Patient Engagement for patient texting and reminders. This would further enhance the efficiency of the center and improve patient communication and satisfaction.