Lean methods of workflow that have been successfully adopted by Royal Bolton Hospital, part of the Royal Bolton Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, have enabled the installation of two AXIOM Aristos™ digital X-ray systems from Siemens Healthcare in specifically built orthopaedic suites.
Lean workflow refers to a culture of continuous improvement by breaking down processes and avoiding waste to become more efficient. These principles have been in place at Royal Bolton Hospital for three years, but when the Trust decided to move from film to digital X-ray technology it partnered with Siemens to provide a fresh, expert perspective on how Computed Radiography (CR) and Direct Radiography (DR) would impact on workflow in the radiology department. This effective partnership resulted in the construction of two specialised orthopaedic rooms to reorganise the flow of patients and reduce the amount of processes taken. Previously, orthopaedic patients were seen with the A&E department, but the new suites now allow them to be easily grouped into complex and simple cases, significantly speeding up treatment.
“Working with Siemens gave us an expert, outside perspective on how to maximise the effects of Lean workflow, allowing us to greatly improve our efficiency and the service that we deliver.” states Catherine Walsh, Radiology and Breast Services Manager at Royal Bolton Hospital. “The orthopaedic suites and digital X-ray systems have enabled us to examine up to a third more patients, significantly increasing the number of patients we see and the quality of care provided.”
“Siemens Healthcare not only provides medical equipment, but also expert advice on evaluating and managing workflow. We believe that to get the most out of technology it is important to assess how patients move through a department,” states Clive West, Regional Sales Manager at Siemens Healthcare. “Rather than replace all radiology equipment in the hospital for the sake of modernisation, we worked closely with the Trust to bring technology and workflow together. This resulted in matching process needs to equipment solutions to assist with delivering a high standard of patient care.”
The AXIOM Aristos MX and VX digital X-ray systems enable high quality images to be taken instantly and without the need to process as with CR. Advanced dose reduction technology, including additional copper filtration that automatically inserts into the primary X-ray beam, reduces Dose Area Product (DAP) meter readings to ensure radiation is minimised for patients.
About Siemens Healthcare
The Siemens Healthcare Sector is one of the world’s largest suppliers to the healthcare industry. The company is a renowned medical solutions provider with core competence and innovative strength in diagnostic and therapeutic technologies as well as in knowledge engineering, including information technology and system integration. With its laboratory diagnostics acquisitions, Siemens Healthcare is the first integrated healthcare company, bringing together imaging and lab diagnostics, therapy and healthcare information technology solutions, supplemented by consulting and support services. Siemens Healthcare delivers solutions across the entire continuum of care – from prevention and early detection, to diagnosis, therapy and care. Additionally, Siemens Healthcare is the global market leader in innovative hearing instruments. The company employs more than 49,000 people worldwide and operates in 130 countries. In the fiscal year 2008 (Sept. 30), Siemens Healthcare reported sales of €11.2 billion, orders of €11.8 billion, and Sector profit of €1.2 billion. Further information can be found by visiting http://www.siemens.co.uk/healthcare.
For more information please contact:
Siemens Healthcare
T: 01276 696000
E: medmarketing.med.gb@siemens.com
W: http://www.siemens.co.uk/healthcare
