Lessons Learned and Opportunities for the Future : A Recap of Key Sessions From AHVAP and AHE Conferences
By Aaron Jett , CIC , CMIP , CSP , CPP , T-CHEST , T , CNACC , T-CSCT , MT-VPEI , WACH
What a journey we ’ ve all been on since the pandemic started .
After witnessing multiple cancellations , postponements , and in-person conference modifications to virtual events , it was nice to engage with several associations we count on to organize safe and effective educational programs .
The overarching theme is resiliency , preparedness , and working together as a cohesive team for everyone ’ s benefit . We saw traditional silos or sandbox myths debunked , in favor of doing what ’ s right as teams and communities . We observed a renewed commitment to safety and the health of our neighbors , families , patients , and communities . In healthcare facilities , improved patient outcomes , insistence on value , and evaluating total cost , not just price , triumphed .
Join me as we review the highlights coming out of the annual meetings of the Association of Healthcare Value Analysis Professionals ( AHVAP ) and the Association for Healthcare Environment ( AHE ). The people these organizations serve are obvious healthcare heroes who traditionally work in the shadows and rarely the spotlight . They are highly valued individuals who work for the betterment of healthcare delivery .
AHVAP
AHVAP ’ s annual meeting and supplier showcase was held in Scottsdale , Ariz . Oct . 26-29 , 2021 . Key features of the educational program were the pre-conference workshops , where new members could network with seasoned value analysis professionals ( VAPs ) covering a variety of topics from the basics of healthcare value analysis to advanced strategies . For many VAPs , a key objective was participation in the Certified Value Analysis Healthcare Professional ( CVAHP ) prep course .
Leading the introduction to value analysis course was Gloria Graham , DNP , RN , CVAHP , who serves as the clinical value analyst for Cincinnati Children ’ s Hospital Medical Center , who included effective principles for managing a challenging supply chain post-pandemic . According to Graham , “ Value analysis or value engineering ( value , function , cost ) is a complete system for identifying and dealing with the factors that cause un-contributing cost or effort in products , processes , or services . Healthcare value analysis contributes to optimal patient outcomes through an evidence-based systematic approach to review healthcare products , equipment , technology , and services . Using recognized optimal practices to collaborate with organizational resources to evaluate appropriate utilization , clinical efficacy , and safety issues for optimal financial value .” Graham noted that “ the process is more than just bringing in a new product or picking the least expensive option .”
Graham noted that evidence-based peer reviewed publications over grey literature , whitepapers , or sponsored publications . For world-class healthcare organizations , Value Analysis begins with a Value Analysis Process Map . She emphasized that following a mature value analysis map ensures best-value purchasing decisions that positively impact quality care and cost , as decisions are based on all relevant information , not just price . “ As value analysis becomes more critical to achieving cost savings and serves as a bridge between patient care and supply chain , more and more hospitals are turning to create robust programs and optimize their processes ,” Graham said .
AHVAP ’ s methodology ensures all elements of the process are evaluated systematically to ensure overall value , including identifying and validating need , gathering data , conducting analysis , implementation , and monitoring results .
Capitalizing on the momentum of the introduction to value analysis , Barbara Stain , MA , CVAHP , SM ( ASCP ), of Barbara Strain Consulting , LLC , conducted the advanced value analysis course , reviewing more complex value analysis processes as well as fostering physician relationships , negotiating contracts , and planning conversions .
She covered a wide range of imperatives , including addressing procedure-based contracting and margin impact ; utilization , waste and reduction in variation ; value-based care , quality , patient safety and practice initiatives , as well as innovative and disruptive technologies .
Strain reviewed the Value Analysis Maturity Curve , where organizations may reside today , and what they must do to move forward to mature or advanced value analysis . Defining healthcare value analysis at its very core , Strain added , is the equation V = Q / C .