| ergonomics in the workplace | practice management
STEVEN K. CORDONNIER Midmark Corporation, Versailles, Ohio, USA
email
scordonnier@midmark.com
involved. at the very least, it could result in back injuries for staff, which is a serious issue in the healthcare industry. the national institute for occupational safety and health (niosh) estimates that direct and indirect costs associated with back injuries in the healthcare industry are about $20 billion annually.
Accessibility as the healthcare industry evolves, equal access healthcare is an increasingly important issue affecting our healthcare system across the country. it basically pertains to a practice’s ability
and willingness to ensure that healthcare is accessible and inviting for elderly patients, as well as those with other mobility concerns, such as patients with disabilities or obesity issues.
Quality of care/efficiency of procedures implementing
will be able to focus on the patient and provide the best quality care possible.
Reputation and perception From a business standpoint, the perception of the patient and the reputation of the healthcare practice are very important. the more pleasant the patient experience, the more likely it is that they will not only return for other procedures; they may even recommend these services to a friend or family member. in any medical practice, especially a cosmetic one, the appearance of your exam tables, lighting, etc. immediately tells a patient whether you are using the best and staying current or whether you are a poseur.
ergonomic and
accessibility principles in a healthcare facility, and in particular the exam/ procedure room, will raise the level of the quality of care being provided and increase the efficiency of the procedures being conducted. the basic fact is that the less physicians and staff are forced to strain to move patients or endure uncomfortable positions, the more they
Growing importance of accessibility too many facilities and clinics still lack total architectural and programmatic accessibility. By providing an accessible healthcare environment that works for everyone, providers improve the quality of patient care as well as the quality of their patients’ lives. Full accessibility is closely tied to many ergonomic principles. as a result, it can greatly improve patient safety and patient outcomes, as well as productivity and profitability for the practice.
Considerations for the aesthetic office to fully understand the significant role ergonomic and accessibility principles can play in an aesthetic office, it is important to look individually at specific areas and equipment found inside the facility.
Entrance and lobby For patients, ergonomic and accessibility principles can have an effect on them before they ever step foot inside the exam or procedure room. simple considerations such as accessible parking, wheelchair accessibility, and power door operators can make the office more inviting and create a more safe and comfortable environment. additionally,
it is
important to have adequate and comfortable seating for patients and any staff. another ergonomic issue often found
in entrance and lobby areas is the potential for trips and falls caused from environmental hazards such as slippery or wet floors, uneven surfaces, cluttered or obstructed passageways, inadequate lighting, or poorly maintained walkways.
prime-journal.com | March 2011 ❚
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