A paramedical coordination unit at a French cancer institute improved workflow and patient care by managing complex imaging appointments.
Medical staff shortage prompts new roles
The shortage of medical professionals has led to the creation of new roles, such as paramedical coordinators, to help manage workloads and improve efficiency in healthcare services.Imaging service faces growing pressure
The Lorraine Cancer Institute's imaging service in Nancy has been under increasing pressure due to a rising workload, demographic challenges in radiology, and strict deadlines set by clinicians, affecting both staff and patient care quality.Paramedical coordination unit tested in radiotherapy
In response to scheduling challenges, the radiotherapy service at the Lorraine Cancer Institute introduced a paramedical coordination unit to streamline appointment processes, which proved effective through collaboration with medical secretaries.New role for paramedical staff in imaging
The success of the coordination unit led to its adoption in the imaging service, where it is now managed by an electro-radiology manipulator and a health cadre, Marie-Line Androni, who handle complex scheduling and optimize workflow efficiency.Coordination unit's responsibilities and benefits
The paramedical coordination unit manages complex appointments, ensures smooth workflow operations, and anticipates scheduling challenges, resulting in improved adherence to deadlines and better work conditions for staff.Full-time position with added incentives
Since the initiative began ten years ago, the appointment coordinator role has become a full-time position, with six electro-radiology manipulators alternating the role and receiving bonuses for their contributions to the service.
