‘Optimising Time for Effective Patient Care’: Work-sampling Analysis

Abstract

Modern healthcare is increasingly complex with the growing demand of multidisciplinary care and the demand for high efficiency, but also healthcare professionals seem to be confronted with an increasing need for high-quality, timely, patient care. Current study was planned with aim to formulate guidelines for effective utilization of dental healthcare personnel and reduce patient waiting time in a peripheral dental healthcare center. A work sampling study was conducted during April 2014 on seven participating dentist posted and patients visiting at outreach dental healthcare center. A snapshot of clinical and administrative activities was recorded by trained investigator over 48 hours. A 14-item classification system was applied to categorize tasks performed by dental health care personnel (DHCP) into five categories and six categories for patient-related tasks. A total of 2,303 observations documented for dentist and 378 for patients. Documentation activities accounted for 5% and infection control for 3% and idle time for 5%. On an average, 33% of patient’s time was spent in waiting area whereas only 7% while delivering health education. To conclude, work sampling is a feasible method for defining the work experience of DHCP and for measuring the impact of administrative changes imposed to improve education or healthcare delivery.