Flevy Management Insights Case Study
Process Improvement for Healthcare Provider with Robotic Process Automation
     Joseph Robinson    |    Process Improvement


Fortune 500 companies typically bring on global consulting firms, like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte, and Accenture, or boutique consulting firms specializing in Process Improvement to thoroughly analyze their unique business challenges and competitive situations. These firms provide strategic recommendations based on consulting frameworks, subject matter expertise, benchmark data, KPIs, best practices, and other tools developed from past client work. We followed this management consulting approach for this case study.

TLDR A mid-size geriatric care provider faced inefficiencies, increasing patient wait times and declining satisfaction due to slow RPA adoption. By implementing RPA and expanding telehealth, they reduced wait times by 15% and improved satisfaction by 12%. This underscores the need for effective Change Management and staff support in digital transformation.

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Consider this scenario: A mid-size healthcare provider specializing in geriatric care is facing significant operational inefficiencies impeding its digital transformation and process improvement efforts, exacerbated by the slow adoption of RPA technologies.

The organization is grappling with internal bottlenecks in patient data management, leading to a 20% increase in patient wait times and a 15% decline in overall patient satisfaction over the past year. The primary strategic objective of the organization is to streamline operations through digital transformation and enhance process efficiency via RPA to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.



This healthcare provider, focusing on geriatric care, faces operational inefficiencies that hinder its digital transformation and process improvement goals. Internal bottlenecks in patient data management and slow RPA adoption are root causes. Addressing these areas will improve patient outcomes and satisfaction, crucial for future growth.

Competitive Analysis

The healthcare industry is undergoing rapid transformation driven by technological advancements and increasing patient expectations.

We begin our analysis by analyzing the primary forces driving the industry:

  • Internal Rivalry: High due to numerous established healthcare institutions and specialized clinics.
  • Supplier Power: Moderate as suppliers of medical equipment and technology have significant influence but face competition.
  • Buyer Power: Increasing as patients become more informed and demand higher quality care.
  • Threat of New Entrants: Moderate with barriers such as regulatory requirements and high initial capital investment.
  • Threat of Substitutes: Low due to the specialized nature of geriatric care services.

Emergent trends include the rise of telehealth, increasing focus on personalized medicine, and the integration of AI and RPA in healthcare solutions. These trends present opportunities and risks:

  • Telehealth Adoption: Expanding telehealth services can improve accessibility and patient satisfaction. However, it requires significant investment in technology and training.
  • Personalized Medicine: Developing personalized care plans can enhance treatment outcomes but necessitates advanced data analytics capabilities.
  • AI and RPA Integration: Implementing AI and RPA can streamline operations and reduce costs. Risks include potential resistance to change and high upfront investment.

A STEEPLE analysis reveals that social factors such as an aging population and technological advancements in healthcare present significant opportunities, while economic uncertainties and potential regulatory changes pose risks.

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Internal Assessment

The organization possesses strong expertise in geriatric care but struggles with operational inefficiencies and slow technology adoption.

MOST Analysis

Mission: To provide high-quality geriatric care. Objectives: Improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. Strategy: Leverage RPA and digital transformation. Tactics: Implement RPA for patient data management and process automation.

RBV Analysis

Key resources include specialized staff and robust patient care protocols. Capabilities are hindered by outdated technology and inefficient processes. Unique competencies in geriatric care provide a competitive edge but need enhanced through RPA and digital tools.

JTBD Analysis

Patients seek reliable and efficient geriatric care. The organization needs to streamline patient data management and reduce wait times. Implementing RPA and optimizing processes will fulfill these jobs, enhancing patient satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Strategic Initiatives

  • RPA Implementation for Data Management: Implement RPA technologies to automate patient data entry and management, aiming to reduce errors and improve data accuracy. Expected financial value includes cost savings from reduced manual labor and improved patient throughput. Resource requirements include RPA software, IT infrastructure, and training for staff.
  • Telehealth Service Expansion: Expand telehealth services to increase accessibility for geriatric patients. The source of value creation is enhanced patient satisfaction and expanded reach. Resources required include telehealth platforms, training for healthcare providers, and marketing efforts.
  • Personalized Care Plans: Develop data-driven personalized care plans using advanced analytics. The goal is to improve treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction. Necessary resources include data analytics tools, skilled data analysts, and integration with existing patient management systems.

Process Improvement Implementation KPIs

KPIS are crucial throughout the implementation process. They provide quantifiable checkpoints to validate the alignment of operational activities with our strategic goals, ensuring that execution is not just activity-driven, but results-oriented. Further, these KPIs act as early indicators of progress or deviation, enabling agile decision-making and course correction if needed.


What you measure is what you get. Senior executives understand that their organization's measurement system strongly affects the behavior of managers and employees.
     – Robert S. Kaplan and David P. Norton (creators of the Balanced Scorecard)

  • Patient Satisfaction Score: Measures the effectiveness of implemented changes and helps identify areas for further improvement.
  • Patient Wait Time: Reduction in wait times will indicate improved operational efficiency and patient throughput.
  • Data Accuracy Rate: Higher data accuracy reflects successful RPA implementation and reduced manual entry errors.
  • Telehealth Utilization Rate: Tracks adoption and effectiveness of telehealth services.

These KPIs provide insights into operational efficiency, patient satisfaction, and the impact of digital transformation initiatives. They help monitor progress and adjust strategies as needed.

For more KPIs, take a look at the Flevy KPI Library, one of the most comprehensive databases of KPIs available. Having a centralized library of KPIs saves you significant time and effort in researching and developing metrics, allowing you to focus more on analysis, implementation of strategies, and other more value-added activities.

Learn more about Flevy KPI Library KPI Management Performance Management Balanced Scorecard

Stakeholder Management

Critical stakeholders include healthcare providers, IT staff, patients, and external technology partners. Their involvement and support are essential for successful implementation of strategic initiatives.

  • Healthcare Providers: Implement and adapt to new processes and technologies.
  • IT Staff: Manage and maintain IT infrastructure and RPA tools.
  • Patients: Provide feedback on new services and improvements.
  • Technology Partners: Supply and support RPA and telehealth technologies.
  • Management: Oversee strategic initiatives and allocate resources.
Stakeholder GroupsRACI
Healthcare Providers
IT Staff
Patients
Technology Partners
Management

We've only identified the primary stakeholder groups above. There are also participants and groups involved for various activities in each of the strategic initiatives.

Learn more about Stakeholder Management Change Management Focus Interviewing Workshops Supplier Management

Process Improvement Best Practices

To improve the effectiveness of implementation, we can leverage best practice documents in Process Improvement. These resources below were developed by management consulting firms and Process Improvement subject matter experts.

Process Improvement Deliverables

These are a selection of deliverables across all the strategic initiatives.

  • Process Improvement Framework (PPT)
  • RPA Implementation Roadmap (PPT)
  • Telehealth Expansion Plan (PPT)
  • Personalized Care Plan Guidelines (PPT)
  • Financial Impact Model (Excel)

Explore more Process Improvement deliverables

RPA Implementation for Data Management

The implementation team leveraged several established business frameworks to guide the RPA implementation for data management, including the Lean Six Sigma framework. Lean Six Sigma is a methodology that combines Lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma techniques to improve efficiency and reduce waste. It was particularly useful in this context because it helped identify and eliminate inefficiencies in patient data management processes. The team followed this process:

  • Define the current state of patient data management processes through process mapping and stakeholder interviews.
  • Measure the performance of these processes using key metrics such as data entry error rates and processing times.
  • Analyze the root causes of inefficiencies and errors by conducting a detailed value stream analysis.
  • Improve the processes by implementing RPA technologies to automate repetitive tasks and reduce manual intervention.
  • Control the new processes by establishing monitoring and feedback mechanisms to ensure sustained improvements.

The team also utilized the ADKAR Change Management Model to facilitate the transition to RPA. ADKAR stands for Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement, and it was useful for managing the human aspect of the transition. The team followed this process:

  • Raise awareness about the benefits of RPA among staff through workshops and informational sessions.
  • Generate desire for change by highlighting the positive impact on workload and patient outcomes.
  • Provide knowledge and training on the new RPA tools and processes.
  • Develop the ability of staff to use the new tools through hands-on training and support.
  • Reinforce the changes by recognizing and rewarding successful adoption and providing ongoing support.

The implementation of Lean Six Sigma and the ADKAR model resulted in a significant reduction in data entry errors and processing times, leading to improved data accuracy and patient throughput. Staff adapted well to the new processes, enhancing overall operational efficiency.

Telehealth Service Expansion

The team utilized the Business Model Canvas framework to guide the expansion of telehealth services. The Business Model Canvas is a strategic management tool that allows organizations to visualize, design, and innovate their business models. It was particularly useful in this context to identify and align the key components necessary for successful telehealth implementation. The team followed this process:

  • Define the customer segments for telehealth services, focusing on geriatric patients and their caregivers.
  • Identify the value propositions, such as improved accessibility and convenience for patients.
  • Outline the key activities required to deliver telehealth services, including technology setup and training.
  • Determine the key resources needed, such as telehealth platforms and skilled healthcare providers.
  • Establish key partnerships with technology vendors and regulatory bodies.
  • Define the revenue streams and cost structure associated with telehealth services.

The team also applied the PESTLE Analysis framework to understand the external factors influencing telehealth expansion. PESTLE stands for Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental factors. The team followed this process:

  • Analyze political factors such as healthcare regulations and policies that impact telehealth services.
  • Evaluate economic factors, including funding and reimbursement models for telehealth.
  • Assess social factors, such as patient demographics and acceptance of telehealth.
  • Examine technological factors, including the availability and reliability of telehealth platforms.
  • Review legal factors, such as data privacy and security regulations.
  • Consider environmental factors, such as the impact of telehealth on reducing travel and carbon footprint.

The implementation of the Business Model Canvas and PESTLE Analysis frameworks resulted in a well-structured telehealth service offering that met patient needs and complied with regulatory requirements. The expanded telehealth services improved patient accessibility and satisfaction, leading to increased adoption and utilization.

Personalized Care Plans

The team employed the Value Chain Analysis framework to guide the development of personalized care plans. Value Chain Analysis helps organizations identify and optimize activities that create value for customers. It was particularly useful in this context for understanding how to deliver personalized care effectively. The team followed this process:

  • Map the primary activities involved in patient care, including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.
  • Identify support activities such as data management, staff training, and technology infrastructure.
  • Analyze how each activity contributes to patient outcomes and identify opportunities for personalization.
  • Integrate advanced data analytics tools to gather and analyze patient data for personalized care plans.
  • Develop personalized care protocols based on data insights and best practices.

The team also utilized the McKinsey 7S Framework to ensure alignment of internal elements with the personalized care initiative. The 7S Framework examines seven internal elements: Strategy, Structure, Systems, Shared Values, Style, Staff, and Skills. The team followed this process:

  • Align the strategy with the goal of delivering personalized care.
  • Adapt the organizational structure to support cross-functional collaboration.
  • Implement systems for data collection and analysis to support personalized care.
  • Reinforce shared values emphasizing patient-centric care.
  • Adjust management style to encourage innovation and responsiveness.
  • Ensure staff are trained and skilled in personalized care approaches.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement and learning.

The implementation of Value Chain Analysis and the McKinsey 7S Framework resulted in the successful development and integration of personalized care plans. This led to improved treatment outcomes and higher patient satisfaction, reinforcing the organization's commitment to patient-centric care.

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Key Findings and Results

Here is a summary of the key results of this case study:

  • Reduced patient wait times by 15% through the implementation of RPA in patient data management.
  • Increased patient satisfaction scores by 12% following the expansion of telehealth services.
  • Achieved a 20% reduction in data entry errors due to the automation of patient data processes.
  • Telehealth utilization rate increased by 25%, enhancing accessibility for geriatric patients.
  • Developed personalized care plans that led to a 10% improvement in treatment outcomes.

The overall results of the initiative indicate significant progress in addressing operational inefficiencies and enhancing patient satisfaction. The reduction in patient wait times and data entry errors demonstrates the effectiveness of RPA implementation, while the increase in patient satisfaction and telehealth utilization underscores the positive impact of expanded digital services. However, the initiative faced challenges, such as initial resistance to change from staff and higher-than-expected costs for technology and training. These issues suggest that a more gradual implementation and additional support for staff adaptation could have mitigated some of the difficulties. Additionally, while personalized care plans improved treatment outcomes, the integration process was slower than anticipated, indicating a need for better alignment of internal systems and resources from the outset.

Recommended next steps include continuing to monitor and refine the RPA processes to ensure sustained improvements in data accuracy and patient throughput. Expanding telehealth services further and investing in advanced analytics for personalized care will be crucial for maintaining momentum. Additionally, addressing staff resistance through ongoing training and support, and optimizing resource allocation for technology investments, will help solidify these gains. Finally, establishing a continuous feedback loop with patients and staff will ensure that the organization remains responsive to emerging needs and challenges.


 
Joseph Robinson, New York

Operational Excellence, Management Consulting

The development of this case study was overseen by Joseph Robinson. Joseph is the VP of Strategy at Flevy with expertise in Corporate Strategy and Operational Excellence. Prior to Flevy, Joseph worked at the Boston Consulting Group. He also has an MBA from MIT Sloan.

To cite this article, please use:

Source: Efficiency Enhancement in Specialty Chemicals Production, Flevy Management Insights, Joseph Robinson, 2024


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