Reference no: EM133825230

Question

The current scheduling software is cumbersome to use in filling these openings, and most staff are not trained in its advanced features. Dr. Tzano observed that because of all the Saturday appointments and the doctors' schedules, it is difficult to maintain primary doctor relationships for pediatric patients. Even if a doctor plans his or her Saturdays six months apart (which does not always happen), if the patient is not available (sick, etc.), it is also difficult to keep the patient with the primary doctors. Martha Mackey, director of HR, also commented on employee morale. Team members do not always enjoy working on Saturdays, and it was becoming more difficult to find employees willing to work this schedule. Finally, Bob Martin, chief financial officer, stated that in addition to the scheduling problems, the average procedures (fees) per patient aren't as high as they could be. For example, a parent generally doesn't consent to a fluoride treatment when insurance doesn't cover it, and it is the same situation with X-rays. He said, "We routinely are told that patients will only consent to treatment if it's covered. We always talk about how we plan treatment based on the needs of the patient, but ultimately patients determine their own needs based on their insurance coverage. Through July revenue is 15.1 percent below plan (budget)." How would you resolve the problems with VVD's Pediatric Saturdays?