Reduction of Time Taken for UBT Positive Patients
Care Process & Redesign
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
SingHealth
31 December 2024
Standardize UBT workflow and reduce waiting time for UBT-positive patients by 30 minutes. The improved workflow has eliminated waiting time for UBT-positive patients, enhancing clinic throughput.
Year Submitted: 2024
Published Date: 31 December 2024
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Quality Improvement, Lean Methodology, Workflow Redesign, Access To Care, Waiting Time
About this Content
Aims
Standardize UBT workflow and reduce waiting time for UBT-positive patients by 30 minutes.
Background
UBT detects Helicobacter pylori infections, a leading cause of ulcers. Delays occurred due to inconsistent post-test handling, requiring doctor review before patient release.
Methods
Standardized the workflow, including a revised referral process for UBT-positive patients and reducing dependency on immediate doctor review.
Results
Reduced test time from 40 to 30 minutes, saving 9,460 minutes (158 hours) annually, increasing UBT slots to meet patient demand.
Conclusion
The improved workflow has eliminated waiting time for UBT-positive patients, enhancing clinic throughput.
Lessons Learnt
Standardization and reducing process bottlenecks significantly improve efficiency.
Keywords
Urea Breath Test, Diagnostic Procedure, Waiting Time, Standardized Workflow, Gastroenterology
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | SingHealth |
Organization(s) Involved | Sengkang General Hospital |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Allied Health, Healthcare Administration, Medical |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Pulmonology, Gastroenterology |
Project Lead(s) | Rachel Teo Ying |
Project Member(s) | Deborah Anne Heng Yong En |
Connect with this contributor!
Rachel Teo Ying - Rachel.teo.ying@skh.com.sg
Project Attachment
1012_SKH_NHIP_2024_Reduction_of_time_taken_for_Urea_Breath_Test_UBT_procedure.pdf