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Successful utilization of a "FasTrac" approach to reduce unused nuclear cardiology isotope dosages

¹ Molecular & Functional Imaging, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio

2127

Objectives: FasTrac is a six-step, team-based collaborative problem solving process that systematically works from problem definition to formulation and implementation of action plan by the front line employees. In nuclear cardiology, a number of dosages remain unused for a variety of reasons. We hypothesized that a FasTrac approach could be used to reduce the number of these unused isotope dosages to achieve cost savings.

Methods: Co-sponsored by Nuclear Medicine and Cardiology, participants consisted of Nuclear and Stress Technologists, exercise physiologist, nurse and scheduler. Problems were identified in four areas: protocol, technology, end to end process and communication. These were mapped to the performance matrices from which most wanted improvements were defined. Each member took up a challenge, prioritized opportunities and recommended a solution. Members met weekly or as often as needed. The proposed improvements were implemented and progress was benchmarked.

Results: The major reason for unused dosages was test cancellation. This was due to improper prep instructions, unavailability of patient weights at time of scheduling, unchecked lab tests, poor communication between pharmacist and schedulers and insufficient referring physician guidelines. The team updated patient instruction pamphlets, added patient weight as a required field in the scheduling system, and created a pager for the pharmacy and scheduling desk. Booklets were created for referring physicians and distributed. The average number of unused dosages decreased from 4/day to 1/day resulting in monthly savings of approximately $3300.

Conclusions: Empowering front-line employees using a "FasTrac" approach results in significant reduction of unused dosages, improves departmental performance and adds to significant cost savings.

This Article Services Email this article to a friend Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Download to citation manager Google Scholar Articles by Khandekar, S. Articles by Brunken, R. PubMed Articles by Khandekar, S. Articles by Brunken, R.