Doctors Get Brainy: Learning From Management Gurus to Make Hospitals Less Scary
Lucknow, December 10: A novel collaboration between the Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIML), Johns Hopkins University, and the State Institute of Health and Family Welfare is revolutionizing patient experiences in Uttar Pradesh government hospitals. Mid-level medical officers, including Chief Medical Officers and Chief Medical Superintendents, have proposed innovative solutions to streamline patient flow, potentially reducing wait times and improving overall healthcare delivery.
Thirty doctors participated in a three-phase management development program where they received intensive training in systems thinking, problem-solving, quality management, conflict resolution, and effective communication. Armed with these newly acquired skills, the doctors devised practical solutions to address critical challenges within the state’s healthcare system.
“One key innovation focuses on guiding patients to the correct Outpatient Department (OPD) using clear signage and visual cues,” says Prof. Nishant Uppal, Chairperson of the Management Development Programme at IIML. “This simple change can significantly reduce patient frustration and improve overall efficiency within the hospital.”
Principal Secretary of Medical, Health & Family Welfare, Partha Sarthi Sen Sharma, highlights the importance of developing leadership skills among mid-level medical officers. “CMOs and CMSs play a crucial role in managing and leading healthcare teams. This hybrid program equips them with the necessary competencies in leadership, management, and process change to drive positive transformations within the healthcare system,” he states.
This innovative program marks a significant step forward in enhancing patient experiences and improving healthcare delivery in Uttar Pradesh. By empowering mid-level medical officers with the skills and tools needed to drive positive change, the program paves the way for a more efficient and patient-centered healthcare system in the state.
