Authors (including presenting author) :
CHUNG CKY(1), CHEUNG ITF(2), CHAN LH(3), FUNG KSO(2), FUNG VH(1), HUNG VYS(1), LEUNG OKC(1), CHEUNG EHW(1) , LAM DHM(1) , WONG DSY(1), LAM EMS(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Information Technology & Health Informatics Division, Hospital Authority
(2) Cluster Service Division, Hospital Authority
(3) Hong Kong West Cluster, Hospital Authority
Introduction :
Scheduling of blood specimen collection would help reducing long waiting time and social distancing for patients, as well as improving efficiency in clinical operation. In the Hospital Authority of Hong Kong (HA), it is common for patients to crowd and wait (could be more than 45 minutes) for blood specimen collection which increases the chance of cross infection. A project on ‘Blood Taking Scheduling in SOPC’ was commenced to enhance patient’s experience and workflow efficiency on this regard.
Objectives :
The project aims to improve the blood specimen collection service by (1) reducing waiting time, (2) balancing attendance and (3) keeping social distance for infectious disease prevention (especially under winter surge or COVID-19 pandemic).
Methodology :
Individual blood tests were examined to identify the most appropriate time in a day for taking the blood specimen according to test nature, e.g. if fasting blood sample is required, laboratory operation schedule (designated / excluded time to collect specimen). Patients can self-schedule ‘blood taking’ appointment at kiosk with 3 simple steps. Once patient scans the barcode on the blood test request form, the system will check the parameters of individual blood tests and also the patient’s next consultation appointment. Suitable timeslots will be provided for patient to choose. After confirming the timeslot, patient can collect ‘appointment sticker’ from the kiosk and stick on the blood taking request form. Patient will approach the counter for scheduling of special blood tests or one cannot pick an appropriate timeslot from kiosk.
Result & Outcome :
The Proof of Concept (POC) was started at one SOPC of major hospital since Aug 2020. Utilization was closely monitored. System enhancements including refining scheduling logic, updating data base and modifying user interface were completed in Oct 2020. Successful booking rate via kiosk was around 90% with average processing time less than 30 seconds. The project will be introduced to other SOPCs in coming year. A co-delivery pack is prepared to facilitate other SOPCs to implement this system. Patient’s satisfaction survey will be available soon to facilitate project review.
Innovation in information technology helps to improve patient experience and workflow efficiency in blood specimen collection.
