Full Visibility into Case Profitability

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 cost forecasting, 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 cost forecasting was driven by the need for efficiency, accuracy, and autonomy in managing case profitability and financial planning.

The Results

The implementation of HST’s case cost forecasting 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 cost forecasting 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.

The Future

The Center of Urological Surgery is still in the early stages of utilizing HST’s case cost forecasting 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 cost forecasting will lead to even greater efficiencies, improved financial performance, and better-informed strategic decisions.

In summary, the adoption of HST’s case cost forecasting 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.