Improving Patient Flow in Emergency Department During System Downtime
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
National Healthcare Group
15 May 2025
The aim of the project is to enhance coordination and communication among healthcare teams during NGEMR downtime by using. The Microsoft Teams Trackboard solution effectively improved coordination and communication during NGEMR downtime, enhancing patient.
Year Submitted: 2025
Published Date: 15 May 2025
Tags: Automation, Information ＆ Communication Technology, Robotics, Workflow Redesign, Productivity, Cost Saving
About this Content
Aims
The aim of the project is to enhance coordination and communication among healthcare teams during NGEMR downtime by using Microsoft Teams as an online tracking board, replacing inefficient paper tracking methods.
Background
The project was initiated due to challenges faced by Emergency Departments during NGEMR downtime, such as preparation work, security concerns with paper documentation, difficulty in tracking patients, and issues with legibility and transcription of information.
Methods
The project involved using Microsoft Teams, specifically the List and Excel applications, to replicate tracking board information and provide real-time updates. Training and educational materials were provided to staff, and feedback mechanisms were established for continuous improvement.
Results
The project led to significant improvements in patient care and staff efficiency, with positive feedback from users regarding reduction in paper waste, improved patient tracking, documentation capabilities, and communication. The survey results showed a strong preference for the new system over traditional methods.
Conclusion
The Microsoft Teams Trackboard solution effectively improved coordination and communication during NGEMR downtime, enhancing patient care and staff satisfaction. The project demonstrates a sustainable and cost-effective approach to managing downtime in healthcare settings.
Lessons Learnt
Key lessons include the importance of training end users, protecting sensitive data, and incorporating feedback for continuous improvement. The project team conducted after-action reviews and updated reference guides based on lessons learned.
Additional Information
The project has been adopted since May 2024 and has shown positive impact during monthly NGEMR downtime cycles. The entire Emergency Department has benefited from its use, and the project is set to expand with the integration of Microsoft Co-Pilot for further enhancements.
Keywords
Microsoft Teams, NGEMR, Emergency Department, Patient Tracking
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National Healthcare Group |
Organization(s) Involved | Woodlands Health |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Healthcare Administration |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Emergency Medicine |
Project Lead(s) | Marvin Loh, Gay Cheong |
Project Member(s) | Eugene Seah |
Connect with this contributor!
Dr. Marvin Loh - Marvin_cy_loh@wh.com.sg
Project Attachment
823_WH_NHIP 2025_Improving Patient Flow in Emergency Department During System Downtime.pdf