How Data Science Can Reduce Patient Waiting Time

Here are a few ways that data science can reduce patient waiting time:

1. Increased OR Utilisation

One of the major benefits of data science in hospital management is the better and more efficient utilisation of the operation theatre (OR). Through predictive analysis, cloud computing, mobile technology, etc., it becomes a lot easier for the doctors themselves to block the OR and release it when their need is over. This allows for increased utilisation of the OR overall (and revenue through it). It also reduces the time that patients in need of surgeries have to wait.

2. Reduced Infusion Centre Wait Times

Infusion centres have a hard time scheduling appointment times. It is very difficult for even big centres to reduce their patient’s waiting period, especially during ‘the morning rush hour’. This is because there usually is a great deal of uncertainty with last-minute add-ons, late cancellations, no-shows, etc. However, applying predictive analysis and machine learning can optimise schedule templates, drastically reducing patient wait times.

3. Streamlining Emergency Department Operations

ED operations are quite famous for bottlenecks, with patients waiting for lab reports, or to get scans done, and so on. This maybe caused due to a lack of staff and a general lack of proper scheduling. Applying EHR management solutions can optimise the scheduling, finding the best order for events to take place. This will in turn reduce patient waiting times greatly and also make smarter use of the ED services. Costing around Rs.10 to 45 lakh, such solution can be effective in streamlining the emergency department operations and the cost of which can be easily financed by a business loan for doctors up to Rs.25 lakh.

Thus, if used correctly, data science solutions, coupled with right financing options like business loan for doctors for procurement and maintenance, can not only reduce patient waiting time, but can also lower health care costs, increase patient access, and better use the hospital infrastructure that’s already in place.