As the press of daily volume remains strong and consistent, it provides me with an opportunity to review some of the key drivers of patient length of stay (LOS) and its relation to physician quality work life.

We have taken a careful and thoughtful look at LOS over the last few years and our progress on the issue has been significant. As the challenge of increasing volume persists, our dedication to the issue becomes more important. According to the Advisory Board Company, a reduction of .25 days creates more than 25 free beds in a hospital our size.

Obviously, freeing up beds allows us to address the demand for our services, to decrease emergency room diversions, and to positively impact the patient experience. While there are myriad factors that contribute positively and negatively to LOS, it is incumbent upon us to create strengthened relationships between attending physicians and care coordinators. Clear and timely communication is pivotal to our ability to manage this critical issue as our care coordinators implement a more assertive role.

Your effort to date in reducing LOS strengthens our ability to deliver exceptional care and is imperative to the hospital’s success.

Sincerely,

Andy Whittemore, MD
Chief Medical Officer