Keep physician movement in mind to maximize productivity

Though staff efficiency helps you maximize your per hour patient rate, don't over-emphasize staff movement. Orient your redesign/remodel to minimize physician-not staff-movement and hence maximize the physician/patient encounter rate. For example, a tight exam room arrangement that allows the physician to move just a short distance from door to door maximizes productivity.

Beware of anything drawing the physician away from his or her production area. Sometimes the physician's private office stands adjacent to the exam area. But unless she or he uses it regularly for direct patient contact, it only provides an easy distraction from productive work.

See if the physician can remain in the exam area while dictating notes, talking on the phone or reviewing records (including films and reports).

P.S. Don’t forget to visit my micro-blog on twitter – www.twitter.com/rtacpa. This blog is based on actual client experiences, seminar attendance, and general musings.