Staff at our hospitals are always looking for ways to be more efficient. It makes sense. When hospitals are run most effectively, patients receive the highest quality care. However, did you know that when we increase efficiency, we also save money?

It’s no easy task. Since 2010, the number of patients coming through our hospitals has increased 13.5%, which means we’re working harder than ever. That’s the motivation behind Vancouver Coastal Health’s initiative, Every Minute Counts, which helps ensure people receive the quality care they need when they need it. This program aims to improve operations in several areas: refining systems to create more efficient discharges; better coordination between areas such as discharge, housekeeping, and transport; and more efficient discharge planning processes.

By streamlining processes, we’re facilitating timely discharges and improving patient flow throughout the hospital. Patients will not be waiting long to be admitted, or to get care. We find it will help staff as well: improved patient flow mean less congestion in departments and easier transitions with parents and families, allowing staff to do what they do best: deliver quality care.

The added benefit? When our hospitals are run most efficiently, it saves money – money that can be used to buy supplies and equipment. Quality of care is the most important thing, but we also want to ensure we’re using donations and funds in the most effective way possible. After all, every minute counts, but so does every dollar.

Learn more about what’s happening at VGH.

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