Automation as A Continued Enabler for Sustained Workplace Transformation
Care Process & Redesign
Technology
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
SingHealth
26 November 2025
To automate and optimize the meal ordering process for ED physicians to reduce the time spent from 14 hours to 7 hours. The automation of the meal ordering process using RPA and M365 functions significantly reduced the time required, allowing staff to.
Year Submitted: 2025
Published Date: 26 November 2025
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Productivity, Time Saving, Quality Improvement, Workflow Redesign, Technology, Digitalisation, Automation, Robotics Process Automation
About this Content
Aims
To automate and optimize the meal ordering process for ED physicians to reduce the time spent from 14 hours to 7 hours within 6 months.
Background
The meal ordering process for ED physicians was time-consuming, requiring around 14 hours per week, equivalent to 1/3 of a full-time employee's working hours. The task was monotonous and perceived as thankless, leading to reduced motivation.
Methods
Implemented PDSA cycles: Cycle 1 involved creating separate meal lists for senior and junior physicians; Cycle 2 used M365 excel functions to automate data transcription; Cycle 3 leveraged RPA to eliminate manual input.
Results
Achieved a 90% reduction in meal ordering duration, reducing from 14 hours/week to 1 hour/week. Significant time savings and optimal efficiency were achieved.
Conclusion
The automation of the meal ordering process using RPA and M365 functions significantly reduced the time required, allowing staff to focus on patient-centric duties.
Lessons Learnt
Automation can significantly reduce workload and improve efficiency. However, manual input remains a challenge, and further improvements are needed to fully utilize automated measures.
Additional Information
The project involved multiple engagement sessions to foster open communication, and a departmental workgroup was established to review and improve the process.
Keywords
Automation, RPA, Workflow, Efficiency, Meal Ordering
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | SingHealth |
Organization(s) Involved | SingHealth |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Healthcare Administration |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Healthcare Administrators |
Project Lead(s) | Tian Zhi Hao |
Project Member(s) | Chan Shi Ming |
Connect with this contributor!
Tian Zhi Hao - tian.zhihao@skh.com.sg
Project Attachment
1058_SKGH_NHIP_2025_Automating_ED_Physician_Meals_Ordering_a_90_Increase_in_Efficiency.pdf