Have you ever thought “I’d love to start a FEES program,” but have no idea where to start? With our extensive experience in walking our customers through the purchasing process, we have learned a lot along the way.
Starting a FEES program looks different from facility to facility and setting to setting, but here are some things to consider when first starting a FEES program:
Budget approval
- It is a good idea to start advocating for budget approval for equipment as early as possible.
- Researching equipment options
- What are your specific needs?
- Will you be focusing on FEES only or will you add Videostroboscopy as well?
- What kind of system do you need – portable or acute care?
- How many scopes will you need?
- Will your team require FEES training and/or competency training?
Documentation/Workflow
- Is it important that you can integrate your workstation with your EMR database?
- What will your process look like after you have recorded your study and will document the findings?
- What functionalities does your EMR have?
IT component
- Your IT team may need to register a new device (FEES laptop) to the network, so communicating this purchase with IT is necessary.
- What IT security features are required by your facility?
Cleaning method
- Will you be utilizing central sterilization or manual cleaning?
- If using central sterilization, meet with your SPD team to discuss what types of machines they use and how quickly they will be able to return your scope to you.
- What pre-cleaning policies/procedures do you need to have in place?
Policies/Procedures
- Every facility is a little different. You will need to ensure that your facility has a policy and procedure for the use and disinfection of your equipment.
State regulations
- Make sure you’re aware of the state regulations for your practice.
Here at PatCom Medical, we are proud to partner with professionals who are advocating for the implementation of a FEES program or business. If there is any way we can help you move forward in the process, please contact us.