Establishing and maintaining an effective ECMO program presents unique challenges for healthcare institutions. The complexities involved in implementing a specialized service like ECMO can be overwhelming, further compounded by a lack of institutional experience in developing and managing such a program. However, with a partner like Innovative ECMO Concepts (IEC), hospitals can leverage expert guidance for ECMO program development to establish robust, efficient, and financially viable ECMO programs.

Elevating Existing ECMO Programs

For hospitals with established ECMO programs, IEC provides invaluable support to enhance operational efficiency and financial sustainability. Our team of specialists works closely with your existing stakeholders to conduct a thorough review of your program’s operations. This collaborative approach allows us to:

 

• Identify inefficiencies and areas of opportunity
• Formulate strategic recommendations to optimize ECMO services
• Update policies and protocols to be in line with current best practices

 

One critical aspect of program optimization is revenue cycle management. ECMO represents the second-highest DRG reimbursement in healthcare today, offering significant potential for return on investment. IEC’s ECMO revenue cycle assessment and optimization services help hospitals navigate the complex landscape of ECMO billing and coding. By optimizing reimbursement processes and eliminating errors, we help ensure your ECMO program elevates the quality of care and generates the revenue it deserves.

Launching New ECMO Programs with Confidence

For hospitals looking to establish a new ECMO program, IEC offers comprehensive ECMO program development solutions tailored to each institution’s unique needs. Our program development team provides end-to-end support, covering all elements required to launch and maintain a successful ECMO program:

 

• Equipment and Supplies: We assist in selecting and procuring essential equipment and supplies, ensuring you have the right tools from day one.
• Leadership and Staffing: Our team will work directly with your physician champion to help guide the program. We also provide an on-site coordinator to integrate with your hospital’s physicians and interdisciplinary medical teams, facilitating clinical coordination, treatment, data collection, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Education and Training: We develop a transition plan to train and educate permanent staff, paving the way for future independent program management.
• Administrative Support: IEC offers guidance on revenue cycle management and assists in developing up-to-date policies, procedures, and order sets.
• Accreditation Support: IEC will assist with the ELSO Center of Excellence application, helping you achieve recognition for your program’s quality and expertise.

Why Hospitals Choose IEC

Initiating or expanding an ECMO program can be an overwhelming task for many healthcare institutions. The intricate nature of this undertaking often discourages hospitals from implementing this vital service, resulting in a lack of access for communities and patients that would benefit from ECMO and missed opportunities for hospitals to enhance their critical care capabilities.

 

As medical facilities grapple with the challenge of developing ECMO programs while managing their existing daily operations and pressures, an increasing number are seeking assistance from specialized external partners. By collaborating with experienced ECMO service providers like IEC, hospitals can effectively launch and accelerate their ECMO initiatives, overcome obstacles, and achieve success in several crucial areas:

Optimized Cost Management

Establishing an ECMO program independently can lead to unforeseen expenses and inefficient resource allocation. IEC helps hospitals avoid costly mistakes by providing a clear roadmap, transparent pricing, and expert guidance on equipment, staffing needs, and financial planning. Our comprehensive approach ensures that every dollar is spent effectively, minimizing waste and maximizing return on investment.

Accelerated Implementation

Developing ECMO expertise organically can be a slow process, potentially delaying life-saving care for patients. IEC accelerates program availability by providing immediate access to experienced ECMO specialists through a proven implementation strategy. This rapid ramp-up allows hospitals to quickly build case volume, maintain clinical proficiency, and navigate challenges like staff turnover or leave events more effectively.

Enhanced Operational Efficiency

ECMO programs involve complex logistics, from clinical protocols to billing procedures. IEC brings critical knowledge in ECMO-specific operations, including the intricacies of coding and billing for this unique service. Our expertise helps optimize revenue capture, streamline processes, and proactively address common operational pitfalls, ensuring a smoother path to program sustainability and excellence.

 

By partnering with IEC, hospitals gain access to a seasoned team of experts with a proven track record of success, ensuring a smooth, efficient, and cost-effective journey towards ECMO excellence. Our comprehensive support can significantly reduce risks, accelerate implementation, and optimize both clinical and financial outcomes, allowing hospitals to focus on what matters most: providing exceptional care to critically ill patients.