Optimal utilization of a breast care advanced practice clinician.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Incorporation of "lean" business philosophy within health care has the goal of adding value by reducing cost and improving quality. Applying these principles to the role of Advance Practice Clinicians (APCs) is relevant because they have become essential members of the healthcare team. METHODS: An independent surgical breast care clinic directed by an APC was created with measurements of success to include the following time to obtain an appointment, financial viability, and patient/APC/MD satisfaction. RESULTS: During the study period, there was a trend toward a decreased median time to obtain an appointment. Monthly APC charges increased from $388 to $30,800. The mean provider satisfaction score by Press Ganey was 96% for the APC and 95.8% for the surgeon. Both clinicians expressed significant satisfaction with clinic development. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, initiation of an APC breast clinic met the proposed goals of success. The use of lean philosophy demonstrates that implementation of change can result in added value in patient care.