Efficient Use of Diagnostic Imaging and Objective Evaluation of Work that Reflects Patient Condition

Shida K,Iwaanaguchi T,Uto Y,Muranaga F,Kumamoto I

doi:10.21767/2471-9927.100030

Abstract

In this study, as a secondary use of data stored on the hospital’s information system, we developed a tool for calculating scan time and personnel cost based on patient condition with a view to realizing safe photographic testing that is tailored to the needs of the aging society, and improving the labour environment. We also calculated personnel costs-as a medical resources input-with the aim to promote the appropriate placement of medical staff and the objective evaluations of work. We utilized data accumulated in the hospital information system to ascertain patient conditions and classified the patients according to patient condition. We calculated the non-enhanced head CT scan times, and then obtained scan time coefficients and personnel cost coefficients. The mean scan time per non-enhanced head CT scan was 5.82 ± 3.83 minutes. The equivalent figure for “carried/freedom level 1” patients was, at 6.59 ± 4.27 minutes, longer than the mean examination time. The personnel costs for scans administered to “unassisted walking” patients were one third of the costs for scans administered to “carried/freedom level 1” patients, suggesting that personnel costs for the same type of scan vary depending on patient condition. Thus, more accurate scan time predictions can be achieved by referring to conveyance category, and especially to freedom level. Furthermore, personnel cost coefficients can serve as a yardstick for making objective evaluations of work.

Highlights

In Japan, the birth-rate is decreasing and the population is aging at a rapid rate
As a secondary use of data stored on the hospital’s information system, we developed a tool for calculating scan time and personnel cost based on patient condition with a view to realizing safe photographic testing that is tailored to the needs of the aging society, and improving the labour environment
We assigned the patients to a category based on the conveyance category and freedom level items, and calculated their scan times

Summary

Introduction

In Japan, the birth-rate is decreasing and the population is aging at a rapid rate. keeping medical spending in check has become an urgent matter. Diagnosis Procedure Combination (DPC) was developed [1,2]. Under this system, hospitals are required to provide each patient with nonwasteful, efficient medical services. Local hospitals are required to differentiate functions and there is a need to concentrate and utilize limited resources effectively [3]. One important step to improve the concentration of medical resources and the profitability of hospitals is to use high-cost medical apparatuses (e.g., diagnostic imaging) as efficiently as possible [4,5]. Japan has embarked on a policy of functional differentiation in medical institutions, and has started supporting the appropriate and efficient use of highcost, advanced diagnostic apparatuses through the system of medical service fees. In the future, the government controls excessive medical infrastructure investments and promotes the consolidation of hospitals with advanced medical apparatuses, this will lead to the concentration of the relevant diagnostic tests, and to a significant increase in the number of diagnostic tests per facility

Objectives

Methods

Discussion

Conclusion