10 Best Practices for Healthcare Work Order Management

Effective work order management ensures smooth operations, patient safety, and regulatory compliance. Work order management encompasses creating, tracking, and reporting work orders within a facility. 

When done correctly, work order management increases efficiency, resource utilization, and overall productivity within a healthcare facility. Here are ten best practices for work order management in healthcare facilities:

1. Centralized Work Order System -  Implement a centralized work order management system to streamline the process. This could be a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) or facility management software system that allows for the digital tracking and managing of work orders.
   
   
2. Priority Classification - Prioritize work orders based on urgency and importance. Critical issues affecting patient care or safety should be addressed promptly, while less urgent situations can be scheduled accordingly.
   
   
3. Clear Documentation - Ensure that all work orders are thoroughly documented. Include details such as the nature of the issue, location, date and time reported, and any actions taken. Accurate documentation is essential for accountability and compliance purposes.
   
   
4. Ongoing Training - Provide training for all facility members involved in the work order process. This includes those who report issues and maintenance and facility management personnel. Ongoing training ensures that everyone is consistently reminded of the importance of timely and accurate work order management.
   
   
5. Preventive Maintenance - Implement a preventive maintenance program at your healthcare facility to address equipment issues before they become critical. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent breakdowns and maintain critical systems.
   
   
6. Automated Notifications - Set up automated notifications to alert facility management team members when a work order is submitted, updated, or completed. This helps keep the team informed and can result in quicker responses to urgent situations.
   
   
7. Resource Allocation - Efficiently allocate resources based on the nature and volume of work orders. This includes having the right team members, tools, and equipment to address different issues.
   
   
8. Performance Metrics and Reporting - Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of the work order management process. A facility management software system can help you regularly analyze data and generate reports to identify areas for improvement and track overall performance.
   
   
9. Compliance with Regulations - Ensure the work order management process aligns with healthcare regulations and standards. This includes compliance with codes set by The Joint Commission and other relevant regulatory bodies.
   
   
10. Continuous Improvement - Regularly review and update the work order management process to incorporate feedback from the team and lessons learned. Embrace a culture of continuous improvement to enhance efficiency and effectiveness over time.

Following these best practices, healthcare facilities can maintain a safe and well-functioning environment. When work orders are managed effectively, facility management teams can significantly contribute to the overall quality of patient care.