Posted by Rich Spurr on February 20, 1998 at 09:56:58:
In Reply to: Re: TQM posted by Rich Spurr on February 20, 1998 at 09:50:30:
: :
: : : :
: : : : : : :
: : : : : : : : If everyone has reviewed each others responses to today's topic, please let me know which TQM problem you would like to discuss first. Thanks.
: : : : : : : Lets just take the first one Roni!
: : : : : : Okay. The first one is Nancy's problem in the ER. What goals would be acceptable for the TQM Committee to strive for to solve this problem?
: : : : : 1st I made it, Hi everyone. In response to the ER problem. First, I think the nurses need to be presented with the actual figure (if possible since the charges are "lost), that just may open their eyes even if they don't care or are burnt out. This might help them realize the importance when they are told they have to cut their hours because there is not enough money to pay and support them all. Then, steps need to be taken to make sure they know the FASTEST and most EFFECIENT way to do this "charging or billing". With so many effecient computer programs and even the little hand hel scanners to scan bar codes off items will help (I think). M.
: : : : Marilyn, while I understand your thought process. I have to tell you that there hours are being cut anyway whether they charge or not. Of course, the cut may be deeper if money is lost. I think another way may need to utilized such as a blanket charge covering the average cost of the use of supplies. Stop depending on the nurse to be the cashier clerk.
: : : This is true, I've felt the blade myself. We use "blanket charges" which cover alot and lose a lot. Even with time at a premium, we still are responsible for our charges as we go.
: : That is what is the problem. You are asking people who are working on patients to remember to also charge for the supplies used. There are going to be problems and losses. The bundle way will allow for some losses and some gains. Overall, the burden is not on the caregiver to do anything more than care for the patient.
:
: : In rsponse to bundle charges to cover lost or misplaced charges: What happens to those charges if the patient has no insurance to pay for these " bundle charges " that is suggested.
: Whom do you think pays for these? It is going to be one of three people; the hospital, the federal goverment or people with good insurance who will be charged more to make up fot those who cannot or will not pay their bills.