P039: BUILDING STRONG PARTNERSHIPS BETWEEN ANESTHESIA PROVIDERS AND FACILITIES
Andrew Woodmancey
Anesthesia Operations Consultants
The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, presenting anesthesia providers and facilities with new challenges, particularly in reimbursement and compensation. To address these challenges, anesthesia groups and facilities must collaborate closely to ensure continuous coverage and financial stability. Establishing a mutually beneficial partnership is essential, and this abstract explores strategies for building a successful relationship.
Open Communication: The Foundation of Success
Effective communication is key to any successful partnership. Anesthesia groups and facilities should prioritize open, regular dialogue to address financial concerns and local compensation trends. Key aspects to consider include:
Quarterly Meetings: Setting up quarterly meetings to review financial status and local compensation trends provides a platform for addressing challenges, opportunities, and upcoming issues.
Advance Notice: When requesting stipends or other financial support, providing ample notice ahead of the budgeting process increases the likelihood of approval.
Using Analytics to Communicate the Problem
Data-driven decision-making is vital in healthcare. Anesthesia providers can use analytics to show the factors behind stipend requirements, such as:
Call Coverage: Analyzing call coverage data can reveal inefficiencies, such as overutilized or underutilized shifts, which can be addressed to improve cost-efficiency.
Low Utilization: Identifying underutilized resources allows for better staff and OR time optimization.
Turnover Time/Flip Rooms: Evaluating room turnover efficiency and identifying opportunities to streamline the process can lead to cost savings. Helping facilities understand anesthesia costs related to flip rooms can align financial goals.
Offering Value in Return for Stipends
A successful partnership requires reciprocity. Anesthesia providers can offer value to facilities in exchange for stipends, such as:
Committee Participation: Offering to join facility committees can provide valuable input and support in decision-making.
Performance Metrics: Proposing that stipend increases be tied to controllable performance metrics reassures facilities that they’re receiving value for their investment.
Exploring Alternative Contract Models
Traditional contract models may not always be the best fit. Anesthesia groups and facilities should consider alternative models that align with both parties’ goals and risk tolerance. For example:
Action Plans to Lower Costs: Proactively managing costs is essential. Providers can propose plans like temporarily closing operating rooms during low-demand periods to save on costs.
CRNA or Medical Direction Ratios: Expanding the use of CRNAs or adjusting the medical direction ratio can further optimize resource allocation. Implementing a phased approach ensures both the facility and the anesthesia group maintain stability.
Building a lasting partnership between anesthesia providers and facilities requires strategic thinking and a commitment to collaboration. By fostering open communication, leveraging data, offering value in return for stipends, exploring alternative contract models, and proposing cost-saving action plans, both parties can meet financial goals while maintaining high-quality patient care.