Presentation
Evaluating Time Allocation in Dermatology Providers' Workflow: A Time Study
SessionPoster Session 2
DescriptionDermatology clinics are getting busier, and understanding how providers utilize their time during patient visits is fundamental to improving efficiency and patient throughput. This study evaluates how dermatology providers allocate their time during patient visits to identify workflow inefficiencies and performance variations. Observations were conducted on eight providers seeing 56 patients over four shifts. Activities performed inside and outside examination rooms were captured using EyeTrackers, GoPros, and direct observation. Time allocation was divided into tasks such as medical discussions, procedures, charting, consultations, and examinations. Results showed providers spent 67% of their time inside examination rooms, with medical discussions and procedures consuming the most time—24% and 19%, respectively. A two-sample t-test revealed significant differences in performance between providers (F=2.495, p=0.028), particularly identifying slower performance by a resident physician compared to other attendings. These discrepancies may be attributed to experience levels and workflow habits. The findings suggest that integrating EMR technologies for effective communication and enhancing provider training could reduce potential bottlenecks. Future efforts will focus on simulation modeling to evaluate the impact of proposed interventions on patient flow and provider efficiency.
Event Type
Poster
TimeWednesday, October 15th5:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
LocationRiverside East