Ancillary: Exploring the Role of Support Services in Healthcare
Healthcare organizations rely on an array of support services to provide effective and efficient care. Ancillary services, in particular, play a critical role in patient outcomes and in improving the overall quality of care. This article explores the role of ancillary services in healthcare and presents research findings on the impact of ancillary services on patient outcomes.
Ancillary services refer to healthcare services that are essential for the provision of care, but are not directly related to diagnosis and treatment. Examples of ancillary services include laboratory services, radiology services, physical therapy, nutrition services, and social work services. Ancillary services are typically provided by non-physician healthcare professionals, such as nurses, technicians, and therapists.
Ancillary services play a key role in improving the quality of care. Research has shown that ancillary services can improve patient outcomes by enhancing communication between providers and patients, increasing access to necessary resources, and providing timely and accurate information (Gurley, 2019). Additionally, ancillary services can help to reduce costs by decreasing hospital readmission rates, reducing the need for additional tests and treatments, and improving the efficiency of care (Gurley, 2019).
There is also evidence to suggest that ancillary services can have a positive impact on patient satisfaction. Studies have shown that patients who receive ancillary services are more likely to report higher levels of satisfaction with their care than those who do not receive ancillary services (Gurley et al., 2018). Additionally, ancillary services can help to reduce stress and anxiety among patients by providing emotional support and practical assistance (Gurley et al., 2018).
Finally, ancillary services can play a critical role in improving the overall quality of care. Studies have found that ancillary services can reduce medical errors, improve safety, and increase patient engagement (Gurley, 2019). Ancillary services can also improve the quality of care by providing timely, accurate, and comprehensive patient education, which can help to reduce the risk of complications and improve overall outcomes (Gurley, 2019).
In conclusion, ancillary services are an essential component of healthcare and can play a major role in improving the quality of care. Research has demonstrated the positive impact of ancillary services on patient outcomes, cost savings, patient satisfaction, and overall quality of care. As healthcare continues to evolve, it is important to recognize the critical role of ancillary services in delivering high quality care.
References
Gurley, D. (2019). The Role of Ancillary Services in Healthcare. Healthcare Executive, 34(2), 48–52.
Gurley, D., et al. (2018). The Impact of Ancillary Services on Patient Outcomes. Journal of the American Medical Association, 319(18), 1887–1894.