Using Design Thinking to Influence Healthcare Outcomes

OVERVIEW:
The largest Clinically Integrated Healthcare Network (CIN) in Florida was growing rapidly and trying to ensure it was delivering on its mission of providing cost effective care. As the organization grew, its operating procedures had become ineffective and it was faced with potential deficits within their value based care contracts. The Chief Medical Officer was interested to see if design thinking could solve their issue.

APPROACH:
Stonehill initiated the engagement by interviewing the organizations board, interviewing select members, and analyzing financial data. The organization was dependent on operations staff identifying potential cost saving opportunities and influencing the behavior of its doctors. This was a challenge as the doctors were independent members of the organization and were not obligated to follow the recommendations.

After gathering information and defining the problem statement, Stonehill worked to identify and implement initiatives. It started by defining an operational scorecard with leading KPIs. Then it reorganized operations including creation of new job descriptions and the recruitment of a new Executive Director. The next few months were focused on defining and implementing new procedures that were rooted in data. Finally a full communications strategy was develop and executed to change doctor behavior.

RESULTS:
Within 6 months time the CIN’s total cost of care had been reduced significantly and converted the previous deficit position to record profitability. Stonehill is currently working with the client and has celebrated its 3rd year of continuous growth with record margin.

If Stonehill can help your business identify opportunities, create change, and accelerate growth, please contact us at info@stonehillinnovation.com.