After a sharp decline in radiology services, the University of Cincinnati Health followed a data-driven and team-based method to help increase the numbers back up again. The ‘Recover Wisely’ program was launched last May 4 and since then, UHC has been gaining momentum and was able to hit an overall 102% recovery rate.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, many industries have been affected. Back when most services were halted and delayed, UC Health started trying to find ways to reschedule missed appointments and adjusting to the new normal. At first, there was a shocking decline of 53%-55% in nonurgent radiology services. Around 30,000 imaging appointments were rescheduled. The team at the University of Cincinnati Health then decided to have a more data-driven approach, thus, the ‘Recover Wisely’ program was set in motion.
To be able to assure the best care in the safest way possible, simulations were done along with ‘meticulous monitoring and control.’ There was a big amount of backlog, but updates were given to the clients as the program was being slowly rolled out. By week 10, UHC saw a 102% recovery rate compared to pre-COVID numbers, obtaining 172 cases per week.
According to Achala Vagal, MD, together with the UC Health Department of Radiology and 15 other co-authors, “Longer term recovery planning needs to include the possibility of a second or seasonal surge of COVID-19. However, the principles of Recover Wisely should apply to any rescheduling and recovery strategy.” The team also added, “In the dire situation, if a large-scale shutdown occurs again, other departments will find our experience and resumption strategies helpful.”
With this program in place, several modalities had a significantly higher rate compared to others: with MRI at 101%, interventional radiology at 106%, CT at 113%, and nuclear medicine at a soaringly high percentage at 138%.
UC Health believes that a strategy of tailored communication, cross-disciplinary teamwork, and innovative solutions will help them with any bumps in the road that may come next as the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic still isn’t over.
(Source: Radiology Business)
