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Katelyn MacDougall’s journey in healthcare began in 2010 as a registered nurse at Dartmouth General Hospital. Over the years, she has transitioned into various roles, including charge nurse. Currently, she has taken on the pivotal role of clinical training lead within the Care Coordination Centre (C3). Her experience with C3, especially since its introduction at the QEII Health Sciences Centre in 2022, has been nothing short of transformative.
“C3 has completely changed the way my team communicates on a daily basis,” MacDougall explains. The Capacity Expediter (CE) tile, a key feature of C3, provides a clear view of hospital capacity across different zones and facilities. This feature allows care teams to see real-time data on patient occupancy, helping them plan effectively.
MacDougall notes, “When units enter an estimated discharge date in STAR for their patients, it automatically reflects on both the Patient Manager (PM) tile and the CE. This visibility aids in making informed decisions about patient flow and discharge planning.”
Before the implementation of C3, MacDougall faced challenges that many in healthcare can relate to. “We used a whiteboard to track patient data during bullet rounds. It was time-consuming and prone to errors,” she recounts. The transition to digital tools has revolutionized this process. “Now, with the PM tile, I have access to accurate, real-time patient information at my fingertips. It’s a game-changer for prioritizing and progressing patient care.”
The improvements have been tangible, not just in terms of efficiency, but also in fostering collaboration among team members. “All team members can view and enter notes on the PM tile, which creates a shared understanding of each patient's care journey,” MacDougall shares. This collaborative approach empowers her team to address barriers to discharge more proactively. “C3 has become a vital communication tool that keeps us all on the same page.”
One of the most significant advantages MacDougall has observed is the time saved in administrative tasks. “In the past, we would wait for paper faxes to confirm consults. Now, with everything visible on the PM tile, we can easily track where patients are in their care process,” she explains. This efficiency allows her and her colleagues to focus more on what truly matters: patient care.
MacDougall also emphasizes C3’s role in enhancing coordination between different healthcare facilities. “The transfer liaison within C3 keeps the PM tile updated about patient transfers, adding a layer of transparency that was previously lacking,” she notes. This improved communication streamlines patient admissions, discharges and transfers, ultimately benefiting patients as they move through the system.
While patients may not see C3 directly, MacDougall reassures us that its impact on their care is significant. “C3 supports frontline teams by facilitating coordinated care, ensuring patients receive the right care at the right time,” she states. This behind-the-scenes support is vital for enhancing the overall patient experience.
The introduction of C3 has also fostered a stronger culture of teamwork within MacDougall’s unit. “It aligns everyone towards a shared goal of delivering the best care possible,” she explains. This collaborative spirit has been crucial, especially during a time when the healthcare system faces increased demands.
Reflecting on the future, MacDougall is optimistic about C3’s evolution. “Feedback from care teams is valued, and we’ve already seen improvements in how the PM tile functions. I can envision further enhancements that will aid in patient care,” she says.
For other healthcare facilities considering similar systems, MacDougall offers valuable advice: “Engage staff early and ensure everyone understands the benefits of a centralized care coordination system. It’s essential for improving teamwork and communication.”
In summary, MacDougall’s experience with C3 exemplifies how innovative technology can enhance communication and collaboration in healthcare. As C3 continues to evolve, it not only streamlines processes but also strengthens the commitment to providing exceptional care at Nova Scotia Health.
Katelyn MacDougall’s dedication to her work and the improvements brought by C3 serve as an inspiring reminder of what’s possible when teams come together with a shared vision.
Photo of Katelyn MacDougall.