eHOSPITAL, REGION ZEALAND
We assisted Det Nære Sundhedsvæsen in creating a fully model-supported strategy to improve efficiency and scale the eHospital by 600%
SITUATION
The eHospital is the largest clinical unit for virtual patient treatment in Scandinavia and is facing the challenge of scaling from approximately 900 to 5,500 admitted patients.
To achieve this substantial growth without inefficiency, a model-supported scaling strategy was needed to handle the complexity of clinical treatment and ensure both efficiency and maximum benefit realisation.
RESULTS
In collaboration with the Det Nære Sundhedsvæsen, we developed a scaling strategy to enhance the efficiency and growth of the eHospital. This work included a comprehensive analysis of current operations, as well as resource and capacity needs across varying volumes, treatment pathways, and patient intake across the region.
Our efforts in efficiency improvements resulted in a 21% increase in production within existing capacity, and a 148% increase at full scaling by implementing a range of specific, volume-adjusted operational improvements that ensure continuous realisation of economies of scale.
The business case highlights the potential of converting from conventional to virtual treatment by comparing the economic return on investment (ROI) from investing in the eHospital with that of the region’s physical hospitals.
The overall outcome of the analysis, strategy, and efficiency improvements shows that the eHospital, with only 5,500 admissions, delivers a 140% better ROI than the region’s other hospitals, which is considered relevant both regionally and in light of Sundhedsstrukturkommisionens recommendations.
DELIVERABLES
As the foundation for the strategy, we provided a scalable planning and management model that enables simulation of the impact on all major operational parameters, such as patient composition, treatment pathways, procurement costs, and geographical factors.
In addition to a full simulation module, the model offers a complete framework for managing and addressing operational deviations, such as the number or length of visits required for specific diagnoses, time spent on ward rounds, and the referral process for admitted patients.
As a management tool, the model provides detailed production data and several key metrics related to overall production, such as “cost per bed day” and “cost per discharged patient,” which are essential to monitor over time for benefit realisation.
OUR ROLE
We planned and ensured the execution of the strategy development, including mapping the current situation, establishing methods and models, and conducting analyses that supported the work on strategy, efficiency, perspective, and further development of the eHospital.
This was made possible due to our specialised expertise in healthcare, process optimisation, strategy, analysis, and system development.
Photo credit: Det Nære Sundhedsvæsen, Region Sjælland. Photographer: Jakob Vind