Full Visibility into Case Profitability
The Center for Urologic Surgery uses HST's case profit estimations to understand their profits & negotiate better payer contracts.
HST’s case profit estimations allows them to:
- Move from a time-consuming, manual process to a streamlined, data-driven approach
- Analyzing the profitability of a case in seconds
- Identify unprofitable cases before they reach the booking stage, reducing cancellations
# of Centers: 1
# of ORs: 2
Featured Solutions: Case Profit Estimations
Solutions in Use: Surgery Center Management, Electronic Charting, Patient Estimates, Case Profit Estimations
Specialties: Urology, Neurology
State(s): MO
Customer type: Surgery Center
The Challenge
Kellie Maxwell leads the business office for The Center of Urological Surgery in Saint Louis, Missouri. They were facing significant challenges in analyzing case profitability. Previously relying on cumbersome, manual processes involving spreadsheets, the center struggled with inefficiencies and inaccuracies. These methods were not only time-consuming, requiring hours of work from both Kellie and the center’s CFO, but also lacked real-time updates and scalability. Staff transitions and absences further exacerbated these issues, leading to inconsistent decision-making and potential for overlooking profitable opportunities.
The Solution
Aware that they had a problem, the center initiated the implementation of HST’s case profit estimations, aiming to empower front-line staff with real-time, accurate financial information. This transition represented a move towards automating and streamlining their financial analysis, allowing for immediate access to profitability data for each case. The decision to adopt HST’s case profit estimations was driven by the need for efficiency, accuracy, and autonomy in managing case profitability and financial planning.
It takes us seconds to analyze profitability. That part is amazing. It’s empowering the front office staff to be able to make a decision right away and not have to spend days trying to figure out if we should do a case or not.
Kellie Maxwell,
Billing Manager
The Results
The implementation of HST’s case profit estimations has transformed the center’s operational efficiency. Analyzing the profitability of a case has been reduced from hours to mere seconds, significantly impacting the center’s ability to make informed, quick decisions. This newfound efficiency has not only reduced the workload on staff but has also empowered them to manage their responsibilities more effectively.
One of the notable benefits has been the improved communication and decision-making process between the scheduling teams and the surgeons. By providing real-time data, the scheduling staff can now identify and address unprofitable cases before they reach the booking stage, reducing cancellations and optimizing the surgery schedule.
Furthermore, the tool will enhance materials management, particularly in tracking and negotiating the costs of implants. By setting accurate cost benchmarks based on Medicare allowances, Kellie has been able to identify discrepancies in charges and ensure that the center is not overpaying for materials.
The transparency and data provided by HST’s case profit estimations have also laid the groundwork for more effective contract negotiations with insurance providers. Armed with concrete data, the center can now approach negotiations with a strong, evidence-based stance, aiming for more favorable terms and carve-outs.
I would absolutely recommend HST Profit Forecast. The cost of it compared to what you’re going to get back, it’s going to be paid for within a week at most.
Kellie Maxwell,
Billing Manager
The Future
The Center of Urological Surgery is still in the early stages of utilizing HST’s case profit estimations to its full potential. Plans to roll out the tool to additional staff and integrate it further into daily operations are underway. The center anticipates that the continued use of HST’s case profit estimations will lead to even greater efficiencies, improved financial performance, and better-informed strategic decisions.
In summary, the adoption of HST’s case profit estimations has marked a significant turning point for the Center of Urological Surgery, moving from time-consuming, manual processes to a streamlined, data-driven approach. Kellie Maxwell and her team are now better equipped to navigate the complexities of case profitability, materials management, and contract negotiations, setting a new standard for operational excellence in healthcare.