St. Joseph Hospital achieved a 420% boost in patient philanthropic aid by leveraging technology to bridge the gap between available aid programs and patient access. Atlas Health’s comprehensive database, compassionate patient advocates, and workflow automation were key components of their success. This case study highlights the potential for technology to enhance value creation in healthcare, setting a precedent for the industry’s digital transformation and a brighter future for both providers and patients.
In the world of healthcare, the marriage of technology and value creation is transforming the way providers support patients in need. St. Joseph Hospital, a member of the Covenant Health system in Massachusetts, faced a significant challenge in connecting patients with essential financial aid. Their remarkable journey towards a 420% increase in patient philanthropic aid is a testament to the power of innovative solutions. This article explores how St. Joseph Hospital overcame its hurdles through a groundbreaking approach that combined technology and compassionate care.
The Challenge: A Gap in Patient Philanthropic Aid
Despite being aware of the numerous philanthropic aid programs available for patients, St. Joseph Hospital grappled with a crucial issue – insufficient personnel. Without a dedicated team to manage patient enrollments, stay updated on program requirements, and navigate the complex paperwork, the hospital struggled to bridge the gap between aid availability and patient access.
Furthermore, many patients were unaware of these programs, leaving them without the resources to advocate for themselves. Even if they did learn about these programs, the daunting application process often discouraged them from seeking assistance independently.
Stephen Forney, the senior vice president and CFO at Covenant Health, recognized the pressing concern, stating, “This disconnect between the availability of aid and patients’ access to it was a challenge. We needed a more efficient and effective solution.” That’s when the hospital was introduced to Atlas Health, a technology-driven solution designed to streamline the application process and enhance patient access to affordable care.
The Proposal: Bridging the Gap with Atlas Health
Eager to address the patient access issue, St. Joseph Hospital joined Covenant Health’s mission to close the financial aid gap. Atlas Health presented a compelling proposal to President John Jurczyk. The proposal included three key components that resonated with the hospital:
1. Extensive Database: Atlas Health’s comprehensive database revolutionized the process of identifying assistance options for patients, ensuring the most up-to-date program information was readily available.
2. Patient Advocates: The proposal emphasized the importance of empathetic patient advocates who would guide patients through each step of the application process, removing any barriers they might encounter along the way. This human touch was vital to empower and support patients during their most vulnerable moments.
3. Workflow Automation: Atlas Health’s workflow automation streamlined administrative tasks, expediting the application process without tying up healthcare providers or introducing the risk of errors or delays.
The Results: A 420% Increase in Philanthropic Aid
The results of implementing this technology-driven solution have been nothing short of remarkable. St. Joseph Hospital alone secured over $1 million in aid for more than 60 patients in less than six months, marking a 420% increase in philanthropic aid support across the board. The hospital’s journey serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the transformative power of combining cutting-edge technology with compassionate patient care.
Advice for Others: Embracing Technology for Value Creation
Stephen Forney offered a crucial piece of advice for the healthcare industry, emphasizing the importance of embracing technology for value creation. “The healthcare industry cannot afford to overlook opportunities to support patients and add value to the organization. Utilizing a system to access philanthropic aid is an excellent example of applying technology to value creation,” he urged. Attempting to access these programs manually or not at all is suboptimal for both providers and patients.
Covenant Health’s success story showcases the potential for technology to enhance value creation, and it paves the way for future innovations that will continue to improve the lives of patients. The healthcare industry is on the cusp of a digital transformation, and St. Joseph Hospital’s remarkable 420% increase in patient philanthropic aid serves as a beacon of hope for providers and patients alike, demonstrating that with the right tools and approach, a brighter future is within reach.
