Patient Throughput Initiatives in Ambulatory Care Organizations during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background and objectives: Ambulatory (outpatient) health care organizations continue to respond to the COVID-19 global pandemic using an array of initiatives to provide a continuity of care for both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients. The purpose of this study is to systematically identify the facilitators and barriers experienced by outpatient health care organizations in an effort to maintain effective and efficient patient throughput during the pandemic. Materials and methods: This study systematically reviewed articles focused on initiatives taken by ambulatory care organizations to maintain optimal outpatient throughput levels while balancing pandemic precautions, published during 2020. Results: Among the 30 articles that met the inclusion criteria, three initiatives healthcare organizations have taken to maintain throughput were identified: the use (and enhanced use) of telehealth, protocol development, and health care provider training. The research team also identified three barriers to patient throughput: lack of telehealth, lack of resources, and overall lack of knowledge. Conclusions: To maintain patient throughput during the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare organizations need to develop strategies such as the use of virtual consultation and follow-up, new guidelines to move patients along the care delivery value-chain, and ongoing training of providers. Additionally, the availability of required technology for telehealth, availability of resources, and adequate knowledge are vital for continuous patient throughput to ensure continuity of care during a pandemic.

Global Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Orthopedics and the Implications of Telemedicine: A Systematic Review of the Literature

“…Recently, more and more other studies discussed the implications of telemedicine in orthopedics from various aspects. [ 64 , 65 , 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 , 70 , 71 , 72 , 73 , 74 , 75 , 76 , 77 ].…”

Healthcare Cybersecurity Ethical Concerns during the COVID-19 Global Pandemic: A Rapid Review

“…The provision of medical care during a pandemic was therefore challenged due to the presence of multiple variables, including inventory (personal protection equipment) shortages, limited availability of medical providers, and even healthcare organization infrastructure issues [1]. Prior research demonstrates that telehealth and the use of healthcare technological advances have been relied upon to help sustain the provision of care, coordination of care, and throughput of patients [2][3][4][5]. However, the increased use of technology and telehealth practices comes with security concerns, specifically regarding cybersecurity [6].…”