Abstract
Outpatient phlebotomy services are critical touchpoints in clinical diagnostics, yet inefficiencies in workflow often result in prolonged patient wait times, specimen errors, and reduced staff productivity. This study introduces a Workflow Optimization Model (WOM) designed to enhance operational efficiency in outpatient phlebotomy units within clinical laboratories. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from three urban hospital laboratories over six months, including time-motion studies, staff interviews, and patient satisfaction surveys. Process bottlenecks were identified in specimen labeling, queue management, and patient data verification. The WOM was developed based on Lean Six Sigma principles, integrating digital queuing systems, barcode-driven labeling, real-time staff scheduling dashboards, and standardized phlebotomy protocols. Following implementation, key performance indicators were monitored, including average patient wait time, sample rejection rate, throughput volume, and staff utilization rate. The results demonstrated a 42% reduction in average patient wait time and a 55% decrease in sample labeling errors. Throughput improved by 33%, and staff workload distribution became more balanced, enhancing job satisfaction. Patient satisfaction scores increased significantly due to reduced wait times and improved communication during specimen collection. The study highlights the importance of workflow mapping, staff engagement, and technology integration in achieving sustainable improvements. In particular, embedding automated time-tracking and digital dashboards enabled proactive resource allocation and minimized idle time. The model’s modular structure allows for adaptation in laboratories of varying size and patient volume. Limitations include variability in staff adherence to new protocols and resistance to digital tool adoption. Recommendations for sustained improvement include periodic retraining, stakeholder-driven refinements, and integration with laboratory information systems (LIS) for end-to-end traceability. The Workflow Optimization Model offers a practical and scalable solution for improving outpatient phlebotomy performance, ultimately contributing to faster diagnostic turnaround, better patient outcomes, and enhanced laboratory efficiency.
Keywords
Phlebotomy Workflow, Clinical Laboratory Efficiency, Lean Six Sigma, Outpatient Services, Specimen Collection, Process Optimization, Healthcare Operations, Patient Wait Time, Digital Queuing, Laboratory Information Systems.
Citations
IRE Journals:
Akonasu Qudus Hungbo , Christiana Adeyemi , Opeoluwa Oluwanifemi Ajayi
"Workflow Optimization Model for Outpatient Phlebotomy Efficiency in Clinical Laboratories" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 5 Issue 5 2021 Page 506-525
IEEE:
Akonasu Qudus Hungbo , Christiana Adeyemi , Opeoluwa Oluwanifemi Ajayi
"Workflow Optimization Model for Outpatient Phlebotomy Efficiency in Clinical Laboratories" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 5(5)
About IRE Journals
IRE Journals is an open access online journals established with an aim to publish high quality of research work in various diciplines. We have more than 6 years in publications. Over 2500+ papers already published.
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