Improving Care Efficiency
The company provides alternative care to children. Techam Solutions was engaged to create a Value Stream Map (VSM) to identify inefficiencies and cost drivers in processes. Key issues identified included impacts from the Federal Lawsuit, changes in the acuity of care required, and high staff turnover.
Problem Statement
The company faces operational challenges due to rapidly changing state regulations, particularly affecting service providers in recent years. Increased requirements necessitate additional staffing, leading to inefficiencies that are not covered by state funding.
Key Findings
Increasing Acuity: The mix of cases has shifted from “Low” to more “Medium” and “High” acuity, increasing workload without corresponding compensation adjustments.
Staff Turnover: High turnover (30%+) among Permanency Specialists leads to delays and increased costs, exceeding $2 million annually.
Recommendations
Techam Solutions proposed four key strategies to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs:
Conduct rapid improvement events, including detailed time studies, to identify inefficiencies.
Implement initiatives to reduce staff turnover through targeted retention strategies.
Develop capacity management tools to optimize resource allocation.
Improve family placement processes to enhance care efficiency and reduce overall service duration.
Projected Outcomes
One major anticipated outcome is an increase in family placements from 32% to 40%, leading to reduced care duration and lower overall costs.
Through these improvements, the company is positioned to enhance service delivery, optimize resource utilization, and improve outcomes for children in alternative care.