ENDOSCOPY
researched data), the potential cost savings for a typical Trust using ScopeControl could be in excess of £100,000 per annum. The cost to test each scope depends on the number of scopes tested within a day/week. The higher the number of scopes tested, the lower the cost per scope to test. Based on a ScopeControl unit with a five-year lifecycle and testing 20 scopes per day, the cost per test is £1.14 (not including applied labour cost).
Outcomes and recommendations:
The data produced from the 50 day trial has allowed the Trust to take a ‘snapshot’ view of current inventory, which has given access to valuable information that provides the means to plan improvements to the overall quality and cost effectiveness of the rigid endoscope inventory. The trial assisted in addressing the key problems initially identified: l Lack of traceability for individual rigid scopes: ScopeControl has enabled the Trust to map its rigid endoscope inventory (providing all inventory was tested during the trial period) after each test. A record is kept for each scope, so a detailed ‘picture’ will start to be created of the lifecycle of the scope, should the Trust continue to use ScopeControl.
l Limited testing log maintained: A full log now exists of all tests against each of the six testing parameters, for each individual scope, after each use, during the period of time the Trust trialled ScopeControl.
l Absence of a consistent method or process for identifying faulty rigid scopes: ScopeControl provided a consistent, clinically validated testing method for all scopes, with adjustable threshold levels if preferred, across six different parameters, including internal snapshots along the optical path on each individual test.
l No accurate data available on the condition of rigid endoscopes in circulation: All test results stored against each individual endoscope, results can also be analysed together across the whole inventory for ‘pass’,’ advisory’ and ‘fail’ test results, enabling fully informed decisions to be taken when procuring new endoscopes or having them repaired.
l No single source of data available, such as inventory types, serial numbers etc: With ScopeControl, all data is available in one place, which can be exported and formulated into reports for other stakeholders. Extra fields allow customers to add information such as ‘sent for repair’ or ‘repaired date’ etc.
l Theatre time wasted when a scope is opened and unfit for use: Only scopes achieving a ‘pass’ and those with an ‘advisory’ notice are allowed back into circulation, effectively reducing instances of broken/damaged scopes entering the operating environment.
l Quality assurance of scopes which have been returned from repair: Not only does the ScopeControl ensure that expensive scope repairs are undertaken to the highest possible standard, but it also enables the hospital to dispatch a scope in need of repair with a detailed report. This enables the repairer to focus their attention on the areas needing repair and not adding additional unrequired repairs.
Conclusion
The successful completion of the ScopeControl trial enabled the Trust to fulfil its initial objectives and address the key problems identified. As a result of the trial, the Trust was able to take a ‘snap-shot in time’ of its current inventory, which gave access to valuable information that could now be used in various ways to make significant improvements to the overall quality and cost effectiveness of the rigid
Never before has there been a tangible method of monitoring scopes through each process cycle – information and data which is retained for auditing, analysis and reporting.
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endoscope inventory. In addition, the trial provided a more detailed understanding of the costs and significant savings the Trust could make by using ScopeControl within its workflow every day.
In addition to this, the intangible benefits included patient safety benefits, provision of information to procurement, enabling them to make purchasing decisions based on real time performance data and much improved traceability throughout the lifecycle of the device.
Jim Brown concluded: “The ScopeControl’s ability to provide technical staff responsible for processing these devices with the assurance that they are processing a rigid telescope which will be fit for purpose when next required in an operational setting is unquestionable. This is the most significant step forward in the sterile services field of the processing of rigid telescopes since the introduction of minimal invasive surgery. Never before has there been a tangible method of monitoring scopes through each process cycle – information and data which is retained for auditing, analysis and reporting. “The ScopeControl provides a tool for those people responsible for the management and maintenance of these high value assets, ensuring that not only are they maintained in service in optimal condition, but when they are returned from repair or maintenance that the work has been undertaken in line with the specification. Although money is tight within the NHS, equipment of this nature can help to ensure a consistency of service, improve productivity and enhance patient safety.” CSJ
MARCH 2017
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