Unique concepts that work well

Here are some unique concepts developed by East Albany (GA) Medical Center:

• A physician assistant is designated to handle walk-in patients.
• A Nurse Express window takes care of patients who are returning for nursing services such as shots or blood pressure checks.
• A Lab Express window handles patients coming in only for laboratory services.
• The "team" includes a records clerk and a front desk clerk as well as the provider and nurse.
• All members of the team are on the same walkie-talkie frequency and can be in constant communication.
• All patient tasks, from taking vital signs to appointment setting, takes place in the treatment room.
• The front desk and records people are trained to escort patients to the treatment rooms and take vital signs like weight and height.
• When the nurse checks out the patient, she reminds the patient if he or she has a co-pay or a balance due.