MHA FPX 5066 Assessment 1 Strategic Workflow Plan

Student Name

Capella University

MHA-FPX 5066 Cornerstones of Health Informatics for Organizational Operations

Prof. Name

Date

Objective

The primary objective of this paper is to conduct an analysis of the current Health Information Management (HIM) technology workflow at Valley City Regional Hospital. It aims to identify existing practices, recommend improvements for maintaining workflow efficiency, ensure compliance with state and federal guidelines, and propose methods for evaluating the effectiveness of workflow strategies.

Current HIM Technology Infrastructure

Valley City Regional Hospital’s HIM workflow currently lacks standardized procedures, resulting in varied approaches across different departments. The system encounters frequent updates and new requirements, leading to uncertainty regarding compliance standards. Additionally, there are noticeable deficiencies in the workflow structure.

Best Practices for Maintaining Workflow

Implementing secure messaging systems can significantly enhance workflow efficiency by reducing risks and ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations. Moreover, written or visual workflow plans, prioritization of tasks, and providing access to necessary resources are essential practices. Regular evaluations and clear role assignments further contribute to improving operational efficiency.

HIM Workflow in Various Hospital Departments

Different departments within the hospital operate with distinct workflows. For example, in the admission process, orders are transmitted via secure messaging, with automated alerts sent to unit managers. Similarly, the laboratory and pharmacy departments have tailored workflows to suit their specific functions. Efficient hospital discharge procedures involve coordinated efforts among physicians, nurses, and discharge planners, facilitated by secure messaging systems.

Duties and Responsibilities of Key Personnel

Various stakeholders play vital roles in HIM implementation. Board members offer support, while the CEO sets the vision. Implementation managers coordinate tasks, and quality officers align decisions with clinical requirements. Clinical champions, super-users, and patient representatives provide frontline support and feedback.

Common Workflow Standards Supported by Best Practices

Adhering to common workflow standards is crucial for effective HIM implementation. These standards include initial process evaluation, creating flowcharts, utilizing common metrics, and ensuring Electronic Health Record (EHR) flexibility. Regular feedback from end-users and collaboration between vendors and healthcare providers are also essential.

State and Federal Guidelines

State and federal regulations, such as Meaningful Use requirements, significantly influence healthcare workflows. Compliance with these regulations ensures improved quality, patient engagement, and care coordination, thereby qualifying healthcare facilities for incentives.

MHA FPX 5066 Assessment 1 Strategic Workflow Plan

Evaluating Workflow Effectiveness

Analyzing workflow effectiveness necessitates a multidisciplinary approach. Utilizing analytic reports, direct staff interactions, and tools like flowcharts help assess productivity, revenue cycles, and patient satisfaction levels.

Conclusion

Effective HIM technology implementation hinges on adherence to best practices, compliance with regulations, and continual evaluation of workflow effectiveness. By integrating these elements, Valley City Regional Hospital can enhance operational efficiency and deliver quality patient care.

References

Gravity Flow. (2019, June 14). 7 workflow best practices for avoiding bottlenecks and delays. Retrieved from https://gravityflow.io/articles/workflow-automation-best-practices/

Hopkins, B. (2019, August 23). 3 ways to improve healthcare workflow. Medical Group Management Association – MGMA. Retrieved from https://www.mgma.com/resources/operations-management/three-ways-to-improve-healthcare-workflow

How to improve hospital workflows. (2020, August 10). HIPAA Journal. Retrieved from https://www.hipaajournal.com/improve-hospital-workflows/

Kent, J. (n.d.). Workflow Standards Key for Improved EHR Usability, Safety. HealthITAnalytics.com. Retrieved from https://healthitanalytics.com/news/workflow-standards-key-for-improved-ehr-usability-safety

Khan, S. (2017, December 17). How can healthcare workflow analysis help hospitals in deploying their EHR system successfully? The Healthcare Guys. Retrieved from https://www.healthcareguys.com/2017/12/17/how-can-healthcare-workflow-analysis-help-hospitals-in-deploying-their-ehr-system-successfully/