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HMG’s Academy of Patient Safety (APS) Improving Care, Saving Lives

The Academy of Patient Safety, created by HMG’s hospital team, is having a significant impact on patient care and outcomes at a southeastern teaching hospital, helping to reverse negative trends in patient safety that prompted a nationwide effort to reduce hospital errors.

Directed by Eric Schwartz, MD, the APS is built on a time-efficient, multi-disciplinary model. The APS improves communication between all members of the health care team, empowers nurses and other health care professionals, and fosters team accountability for outcomes. This breakdown of traditional hierarchy encourages questions and contributions to clinical decision-making.

Research has shown that multi-disciplinary communication and coordinated teamwork, combined with computerized health records systems, can improve patient safety and reduce errors.

National & Regional News regarding the APS

East Tennessee Medical News
Kingsport Times News
Medical Economics (may require login)

The APS’ cost efficiencies, integrated use of Electronic Medical Records to prevent medication errors and reduce unnecessary tests, and its adaptability to any hospital or chronic care facility come at a critical juncture, as Medicare institutes a new rule reducing reimbursements for certain conditions caused by preventable hospital safety errors, including catheter-caused urinary tract infections and injuries from falls.

The APS Impact

Since its introduction in 2005, the Academy of Patient Safety has reduced the number of cardiac arrests to three (Code Blues) in one year.

The APS has lowered the number of days patients are kept on a urinary catheter by one full day on average, reducing the risk of urinary tract infections.

The program has also improved preventative education and outpatient care, achieving and surpassing Medicare’s core measurement requirements in areas such as informing patients to stop smoking and taking steps to modify their lifestyles following a cardiac event.

APS Management

Eric Schwartz, MD, serves a dual role as Medical Director of the Hospital Team and Medical Director of the Academy of Patient Safety.

APS Expansion and Contact

The APS hospitalist team is currently recruiting in preparation for the program’s expansion. For more information about the APS or to inquire about open positions, contact Christi Hensley: cfh@hmgkpt.com.

HMG Administration
2323 N. John B. Dennis Highway
Kingsport, Tennessee 37660
(423) 857-2000