On Demand: Innovating Cardiac Urgent Care With Cardiac Walk-In Clinics: Case Study 1-Presentation Slides

Presentation Slides

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The document presents a case study on how cardiac walk-in clinics, specifically the Cardiac Direct Access Unit (CDAc) at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, redefine urgent cardiac care. Moderated by Jenny Kennedy and Ana A. Mercurio-Pinto, it features Dr. Michael C. Gavin, who discusses the journey and benefits of implementing this model. <br /><br />The CDAc aims to optimize healthcare by managing higher-risk patients in an outpatient setting, potentially reducing unnecessary admissions through specialized cardiologist consultations in the Emergency Department (ED). The initiative aligns with the shift towards alternative payment models prioritizing value-based care. Historically, the admission rate for atrial fibrillation patients from the ED was significantly reduced with specialized cardiology consultation. <br /><br />Key interventions include the implementation of a program for cardiology consultation during off-hours in the ED, targeting conditions like chest pain and atrial fibrillation. This program reportedly reduced admissions without increasing return visits within 30 days. The unit achieves value by offering same-day access and reducing ED overcrowding while avoiding unnecessary admissions, thus supporting alternative payment contracts and minimizing readmission penalties.<br /><br />Operationally, the CDAc features observation bays, an infusion room, diagnostic testing, and consult rooms designed for comprehensive cardiac evaluations. It facilitates direct specialty care, which potentially lowers healthcare costs and speeds treatment delivery.<br /><br />Patient satisfaction has reportedly improved due to the availability of urgent care and streamlined operations, leading to increased patient enrollment and minimized care "leakage." Financial benefits come from maximizing observation revenue versus inpatient stays. Despite challenges in physician workload and procedural coding, the program underscores cardiologists' role in mitigating healthcare spending and enhancing patient care outcomes.<br /><br />Overall, the CDAc presents a replicable model for innovation in urgent cardiac care, emphasizing efficient resource utilization and enhanced access to specialized care.

Keywords

Cardiac Direct Access Unit

urgent cardiac care

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

value-based care

atrial fibrillation

emergency department

specialized cardiology consultation

alternative payment models

patient satisfaction

healthcare cost reduction