Date of Award

2021

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Health Administration

College

College of Health Professions

First Advisor

Jillian B. Harvey

Second Advisor

Jami L. Jones

Third Advisor

Diane Laber

Abstract

To date, few studies have provided a comprehensive set of requirements for outpatient medical practices to consider when preparing for complex external forces that impact clinic operations. The objective of this qualitative doctoral project is to establish a set of requirements for outpatient medical practices to consider when preparing for pandemic conditions. Using the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, this single case study reviews how an allergy group practice responds to the variables presented during COVID-19 through change management, quality assessment and financial considerations lenses to assist other medical practices in developing pandemic preparedness programming. Findings from this case study are presented within an adapted Lewin change management framework and supported by six domains found to be requisite for an effective outpatient medical practice pandemic response: risk mitigation, operational excellence, talent considerations, clinical excellence, patient engagement and financial vitality. Annual preparedness training and response drills may assist with developing individualized criteria that supports seamless operations during uncontrollable external forces. Medical practice leaders should swiftly develop contingency plans now to better position their medical offices for a robust response during the next pandemic. Utilizing the six domains reviewed in this case study will support an individualized, effective plan to work through issues observed during a group medical practice’s COVID-19 response.

Rights

All rights reserved. Copyright is held by the author.

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