Leaders at the Rodriguez Army Health Clinic (RAHC) in Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico, have announced the launch of a groundbreaking Patient Queuing Notification System (PQNS), also known as the "Q-Flow system." This innovative technology aims to enhance patient services and streamline operations for the military community.
Key Takeaways
- The Q-Flow system prioritizes patients based on their service status.
- Patients can check in using their Common Access Card or manually enter their information.
- The system provides real-time updates on wait times and service windows.
- Patients can leave the clinic and return without losing their place in line.
Enhancing Patient Flow
The introduction of the PQNS is a significant step towards improving patient flow and service delivery at the RAHC. By managing wait times effectively, the system captures data on various categories of beneficiaries visiting the clinic, ensuring that services are delivered efficiently.
Lt. Col. Faustino Rodriguez, the medical treatment facility director and RAHC commander, emphasized the system’s ability to prioritize care. "This system uses a built-in algorithm to prioritize patients, ensuring that active-duty service members in uniform receive prompt attention over other beneficiaries," he stated.
How the Q-Flow System Works
The Q-Flow system is designed to be user-friendly and efficient. Here’s how it operates:
- Check-In: Patients can check in by scanning their Common Access Card or entering their information manually.
- Ticket Generation: Once validated, the system generates a ticket number for the patient.
- Waiting Process: The ticket number is announced via a speaker or displayed on a monitor in the waiting room, along with an estimated wait time and the service window.
- Flexibility: Patients can leave the clinic for other errands, and the system will hold their place in line. Upon returning, they simply scan their number again to resume their wait.
Real-Time Updates and Security
The waiting area is equipped with a monitor and speaker system that keeps patients informed about their ticket status. Alexander Marrero, the information technology specialist and PQNS manager at RAHC, highlighted the importance of security during laboratory services. "A technician will escort the patient for security reasons," he noted.
Continuous Improvement
The RAHC is committed to continuously testing and updating the Q-Flow system to enhance its algorithm and optimize clinical processes. Supervisors can analyze operations to identify and resolve bottlenecks, ensuring smoother service delivery.
Feedback from the Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) system has been overwhelmingly positive, with service members, their spouses, and retirees praising the PQNS for its efficiency and user-friendly approach.
Supporting the Military Community
With an annual budget exceeding $500 million, Fort Buchanan supports approximately 15,000 active-duty Reserve, Puerto Rico National Guard, Marine Corps Reserve, and Navy Reserve personnel. The installation serves as a readiness enhancement platform, ensuring military personnel are prepared for deployment anytime and anywhere.
The launch of the Q-Flow system marks a significant advancement in patient care at the Rodriguez Army Health Clinic, reflecting a commitment to providing safe, quality, and compassionate care to the nation’s heroes.
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