Three Reasons for Switching from a Manual to an Automated Value Analysis Process

The shortest distance between two points is a straight line—but when it comes to navigating your hospital’s value analysis process, has it ever been that simple? This is especially true when relying on a manual process to manage complex value analysis decisions, where the sheer volume of information, number of projects and need for collaboration can pull you in several directions at once.

Moving to an automated process can definitely save time; but streamlining information access and providing evidence-based data enables teams to make decisions more quickly. This can increase cost savings as well as the delivery of quality patient care. Here are three reasons to consider making the switch:

Make value analysis easier with centralized data

Managing the volume of information needed for value analysis is even more challenging when it’s housed in various places. Information stored on different computers and systems—or in team members’ heads—makes collaboration more difficult, and if there are changes to hospital technology or a team member leaves, information can easily be lost. Likewise, a process managed via email and text makes it more difficult to ensure accurate communication and documentation. An automated workflow that organizes clinical and financial information in one place allows for clear, easily-documented communication that saves both time and resources.

 Automated process provides higher level of transparency

Achieving and maintaining transparency across the team and the organization is a cornerstone of successful and efficient value analysis decisions, and it becomes more complex as the number of participating individuals and teams increases. Keeping stakeholders informed and aware of their responsibilities is key, especially given an increasing need for physician engagement and clinical evidence in decision-making. An automated process that provides access to information and includes tools such as staff assignment, product trials and voting keeps everyone well aligned.

Value analysis decisions backed by clear evidence make it far easier to achieve consensus

Evidence-based data is the foundation for fast and accurate decision-making; without it, the process slows to a crawl. When objective scientific analyses are embedded into the workflow, providing the team with the evidence they require, engagement increases and the team gains consensus more quickly. Increased collaboration and clear evidence accelerate turnaround times and ensures decisions are based on the best information.

The value analysis journey isn’t an easy one. The number of requests, the amount of information to manage and the extent of collaboration needed add increased levels of complexity to the decision-making process. But an automated workflow aligns processes, people and information to help teams make fast and effective data-driven decisions. Learn more about how ECRI’s Value Analysis Workflow can help your organization meet your value analysis goals.