SUPPORT SERVICES
resources effectively, and respond promptly to changes in patient flow or emergencies. These platforms often incorporate features such as task prioritisation, automated reminders, and progress tracking, ensuring that tasks are completed on time and to the required standard. Furthermore, digital systems can generate valuable data on task performance, allowing for process improvement and identification of bottlenecks. As we will see, by leveraging innovative and effective task management technology, hospitals can optimise support service operations and establish an environment which improves patient care and enhances staff satisfaction. Hospital support services encompass a vast array of functions crucial to the hospital’s operation. At the core are essential tasks such as cleaning and maintenance, ensuring a hygienic and safe environment for patients and
Cleaning requests are immediately displayed on the cleaning staff’s service phones.
ultimately, a lack of efficiency in support services can create a ripple effect that impacts the overall quality of care delivered to patients.
A shift towards more advanced task management solutions The healthcare sector is undergoing a digital transformation, and task management for support services is no exception. The increasing complexity of hospital operations, and the growing demand for efficiency, have necessitated the adoption of more advanced solutions for task management. Increasing patient volumes, coupled with resource constraints, demand optimised workflows. Recognising the limitations of manual and paper-based
Staff at Østfold Hospital know which room to clean, and confirm completion via their service phones.
systems, hospitals are increasingly adopting digital tools and platforms to streamline operations. These systems offer a centralised hub for managing tasks, improving efficiencies, and enhancing communication. Digital task management systems provide real-time visibility into workloads, enabling managers to allocate
staff. Portering services, meanwhile, are indispensable for transporting patients, equipment, and supplies across the hospital, while catering teams provide nutritious meals tailored to patients’ dietary needs, as well as food for staff and visitors. Beyond these core functions, support services often include specialised roles. Security personnel safeguard the hospital premises and its occupants, for example. Laundry services maintain a constant supply of clean linens and garments. Waste management teams handle the safe and efficient disposal of medical and general waste. Facilities management personnel oversee the upkeep of the building, including HVAC systems, electrical installations, and plumbing. Additionally, support services may involve transport services for patients and staff, and even administrative tasks such as reception and switchboard operations.
Different procurement mechanisms A unified task management solution is particularly beneficial in healthcare settings, where support services are procured in different ways, with some teams, such as portering, employed directly by the Trust or hospital, while others, such as cleaning and maintenance, are provided through a PFI contract. Without a unified solution, it would be extremely challenging to bring these disparate services together. Support services and clinical functions are intricately linked in a hospital. The efficiency and quality of one directly impacts the other. Cleaning services, for instance, play a pivotal role in infection prevention and control. Thorough cleaning of patient rooms, equipment, and common areas, helps minimise the spread of pathogens, protecting patients and staff. Maintenance services ensure that medical equipment is in optimal working condition, enabling accurate diagnosis and treatment. A breakdown of essential equipment can significantly disrupt patient care and increase the workload for clinical staff. Catering services contribute to patient recovery by
providing nutritious meals tailored to specific dietary needs. Well-nourished patients are better equipped to combat illness. Additionally, catering services support the wellbeing of staff, ensuring they have the energy to deliver high-quality care. Portering services facilitate the smooth flow of patients, specimens, and medical supplies, within the hospital. Timely transportation of patients to operating
104 Health Estate Journal October 2024
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