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BUSINESS ADVISOR
GROWTH CHART
How Can Your Facility Increase Case Volume?
Although every surgical administrator is concerned with growing case volumes, you have to find what works for your center. The challenge is to find the levers that have the best chance for success. This is a form I use to structure my growth plan. It includes examples that may spark ideas for your specific needs.
— Andy Whitener, MSPT, MBA
General Levers
Center-Specific Levers
Complete scheduler satisfaction survey
• Minimize the need for the surgeon to travel
• Would Saturday mornings help?
• Can we streamline scheduling process?
Host a strategic growth-planning dinner with your key physicians
• Hope to combine with BBQ at physician's house
• Involve partners/physicians
• Invite Affordable Care Act expert
Strategic purchases of equipment to attract new docs
• Jackson table for neuro cases
• Ultrasound for vascular surgeons
• Do we have the correct bariatric equipment?
Go to the primary care physicians
• Visit medical clinic and deliver brochures
• Educate PCP's about cost savings for their patients
• Less cost equals fewer canceled procedures
Team-based strategic planning
• Staff have some of the best growth ideas
• Hold a retreat with your leaders
• Celebrate success
Ask for more cases
• Be persistent
• Have a plan
• Involve your staff
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their financial responsibilities) goes off without a hitch. Any breakdown can result in delayed or canceled surgeries, which have a negative impact on your relationship with the physicians.
Be readily available and willing to accommodate surgeons' schedule