ALTIUS is wrapping up our Fantasy team series the same way that all games are decided, with “red zone” performance! All too often, teams have the right strategies, but fail in application. They march down the field, come close to scoring, and fall short. It could be due to the amazing defense of the opposing team or perhaps, it is the result of the players’ inability to effectively deviate from the called plays when obstacles are present. Coaches spend an extensive amount of time developing their playbooks and drilling to ensure successful execution. However, practice makes permanent, and if you are not focusing on the right elements, you may never realize your goals despite having the skills and talent to do so.
In healthcare, as in professional football, teams struggle to overcome similar issues when it comes to enhanced performance. While they may have the right tools and plans in place to achieve the objectives outlined, the outcomes usually leave more to be desired. Inefficient staffing practices, redundant processes, a lack of automation, and so on can significantly impact care delivery. Then there is the pressure of performing well with an “audience” watching and a lot riding on the results; sports teams with millions of viewers tuning in each week and hospitals with lives on the line and a reputation of excellence to maintain. How can healthcare teams finish strong when the stakes are so high? Below are some best practices for leaders to adopt to meet and/or exceed operational and financial goals consistently:
- Strong Communication: Any sports fan knows that coaches and players are always talking, whether to each other or amongst themselves. It is critical that everyone is on the same page; knowing what plays are being run, who is involved, and what is expected. Communication in sports is real-time, with the help of technology, which makes it extremely effective. Communication in healthcare may not be as easy, but it is equally important. Leaders need to be visible to their staff on a daily basis, prompting discussion and collaboration by assessing the current situation, conveying feedback on what is working, and offering solutions to address what may need to be altered.
- Mastering the Art of Pivoting: Even the most carefully thought-out strategies do not always pan out in reality. Leaders can painstakingly plan and prepare, but healthcare is dynamic. If the pandemic has taught us anything as an industry, it is how to pivot! When faced with the unexpected, there is no greater advantage than having a well-rounded, loyal team. Cross-training not only increases productivity and scheduling flexibility, it also expands the skill sets of staff and enhances employee engagement. It allows leaders to capitalize on the strengths of their team members, keep staff busy during downtimes, and effectively “tackle” the unknown with greater “field” coverage.
- Reviewing “Game Footage”: One of best ways to improve moving forward is to learn from past performance. That is why coaches and players spend countless hours reviewing tape, examining where they fell short in the games already played as well as studying the opponents of future contests. This information gives them insight into what is working well and how they can best prepare for what is to come. Healthcare leaders should also have processes in place to collect and assess productivity data to drive their decision-making. Evaluating trends allows administrators to understand capacity better and properly align staffing with volume. This is key in achieving cost-effective and efficient operations.
ALTIUS offers customized performance improvement and workforce optimization solutions to help you create your fantasy team! To learn more about our services, reach out directly at [email protected] or visit our website at www.altiushcg.com.