Authors (including presenting author) :
Tse HY (1), Siu HK (1), Leung SM (1), Kam SW (1)
Affiliation :
(1)Physiotherapy Department, Prince of Wales Hospital
Introduction :
In the outpatient physiotherapy department, patient progress and satisfaction are traditionally evaluated using paper questionnaires. However, this method is fraught with limitations, including susceptibility to human error, significant labor costs associated with manual calculations and burdensome storage requirements. These challenges are further amplified by the increasing demand for sustainable practices.
Under the SMART hospital concept, our department transitioned to electronic solutions, driving the need to digitize paper questionnaires for full integration. Furthermore, the introduction of the CQMS and paperless SOPC has rendered paper questionnaires obsolete, leading to a drastic increase in waste of paper.
The development of electronic questionnaires has become a critical step in modernizing patient care and aligning with the SMART hospital vision.
Objectives :
This project aims to:
1. Digitize paper questionnaires to minimize paper usage, reduce storage demands, and lower manpower costs associated with manual calculations.
2. Enhance service delivery by leveraging an e-questionnaire system to align with the SMART hospital framework for smarter and more efficient care provision.
3. Incorporate AI-driven tools to optimize questionnaire design, improve user experience, and ensure seamless integration into existing systems.
Methodology :
1. Development of e-questionnaires
The e-questionnaires were designed using Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and JavaScript, forming the foundation of an interactive and user-friendly platform. To enhance efficiency, AI was employed to optimize the questionnaire design process. This facilitated streamlined logic implementation, adaptive scoring algorithms, and error checking, ensuring a robust and scalable system. The resulting e-questionnaires function as offline HTML-based calculators, eliminating the need for internet connectivity during usage.
2. Deployment and Utilization
Patients access the e-questionnaires via QR codes or designated iPads provided at the clinic. Upon completion, scores are automatically calculated and input into the CMS by the physiotherapists.
It is crucial to highlight that throughout the entire process of using the e-questionnaires, no personal privacy data is collected
Result & Outcome :
1) Reduction in manpower cost
With full implementation from September 2023 to November 2024, a remarkable 332.9 hours of our staff’s time, near 2 man-months, was saved, which was redirected to enhance patient care.
2) Minimization of paper waste and storage needs
The system facilitated the saving of a significant 42,680 pieces of paper, equivalent to 17 A4 boxes, during the mentioned period, substantially reducing both environmental impact and physical storage requirements.
3) Elimination of human error
The automated calculation process completely eradicates the potential for human error, ensuring enhanced accuracy and reliability in tracking patient progress and satisfaction.
4) Cross-Hospital Implementation
With the system’s success in PWH, the system has been introduced to NDH and AHNH PT OPD, with training sessions and technical support provided for smooth transition and integration.
