With the U.S. Supreme Court’s historic June 28 decision upholding the 2010 Affordable Care Act (ACA), healthcare organizations across the country can expect to see an increase in patient volume over the next few years.  Now, hospitals, physicians and other providers have clear guidance from Washington to guide their strategic planning for the next few years.  While it’s possible that the act could be repealed by a Republican-controlled Congress after the November election, healthcare organizations should ramp up their preparations for the law’s impact.

Certainly, the ACA will make it easier for millions of Americans to access the healthcare system.  It requires individuals to have health insurance – the so-called individual mandate – either through an employer or a state-sponsored exchange.  It also prevents insurers from denying coverage to people with pre-existing medical conditions, and requires them to cover preventative care without additional costs.

So, the big question is what will happen when all those newly insured Americans arrive at a hospital, clinic or physician office.  Will there be enough physicians, PAs, nurses and other professionals to provide quality care?  How can healthcare organizations minimize waiting times and provide cost-effective diagnostic and treatment services?

To cope with the increased demand, healthcare providers will need to review their staffing arrangements and operational procedures.  That could mean expanding the facility to include more examination rooms, or it might mean extending office hours to accommodate more patients in the existing space.  Providers should also consider their staffing options, including temporary, part-time or full-time employees. As the healthcare landscape evolves, All Medical Personnel’s staffing services can provide a valuable resource in this strategic planning process.