Patient satisfaction: a children's hospital's room-service menu cut meal waste 10% in pilot
Alberta Children's Hospital in Calgary launched a pediatric menu and room service model on Oct. 6 so young patients can order closer to when they're ready to eat. A picture-based app shows only items that fit each patient's dietary needs, and parents can order remotely. The menu adds smoothies and familiar dishes such as grilled cheese and butter chicken, shaped by input from patients, families, clinicians, dietitians and Patient Food Services. The pilot cut meal waste by 10% and improved patient satisfaction; a $231,000 hospital foundation contribution helped buy the needed equipment.
Why it matters for directors: Letting patients order when they're hungry can reduce waste and raise satisfaction at the same time. If you're making the case for room service, ask your hospital foundation about funding the equipment.
Original source: Alberta Health Services ↗