Extending the GIRFT Principle to Finance: Unlocking Efficiency and Improving Patient Experience in NHS Trusts

The "Get it Right First Time" (GIRFT) principle has been widely recognised for its positive impact on improving patient care within NHS Trusts. While GIRFT has primarily focused on clinical practices, its principles can be extended to other areas of healthcare operations, including finance. By implementing new embedded payments solutions and automated processes, NHS Trusts have the opportunity to unlock efficiency gains, save costs, and improve the overall patient experience. We look at how extending the GIRFT principle to the finance team can revolutionise financial operations in healthcare. 

Efficiency and Time Savings 

Integrating payment systems and automating financial processes can streamline various aspects of finance operations, such as invoicing, payments, and reconciliations. By reducing manual tasks and eliminating errors, finance professionals can focus on more strategic activities that contribute to the financial health of the organisation. Automation also saves time for under-resourced finance teams, enabling them to allocate their limited resources more effectively. As a result, finance operations become more efficient, allowing the Trust to deliver timely and accurate financial services. 

Cost Savings 

Implementing embedded payment solutions and automated processes in finance can optimise cash flow management and identify areas of unnecessary spending. By streamlining payment processes, the NHS Trust can ensure that payments are made on time and accurately, reducing the risk of late fees or penalties. Additionally, automation can help identify patterns of financial waste and inefficiency, allowing the finance team to make informed decisions and implement cost-saving measures. These cost savings can be redirected to areas that directly impact patient care, ultimately improving the quality of healthcare services provided by the Trust. 

Enhanced Patient Experience 

Efficient financial operations have a direct impact on the patient experience. By minimising errors and delays in billing and payment processes, patients receive more accurate and timely information regarding their financial responsibilities. This transparency fosters trust and confidence in the healthcare system, enhancing the overall patient experience. Patients experience fewer frustrations and uncertainties when it comes to financial matters, allowing them to focus on their health and recovery. 

Supporting Broader Goals 

Implementing embedded payment systems and automation in finance aligns with the broader goals of NHS Trusts, which include providing high-quality care while optimising resources. By optimising financial operations and reducing unnecessary spending, the Trust can allocate resources where they are most needed, such as improving medical equipment, hiring additional staff, or investing in patient care initiatives. This not only benefits patients by enhancing the quality of care they receive but also supports the well-being of the Trust's staff who can work in a more efficient and effective environment. 

Extending the GIRFT principle to the finance team through the implementation of integrated payment systems and automated processes presents a significant opportunity for NHS Trusts to improve financial operations, save costs, and enhance the patient experience. By streamlining financial processes, Trusts can achieve greater efficiency, alleviate resource constraints, and provide a superior patient experience. Embracing innovation and leveraging technology in all aspects of operations, including finance, allows NHS Trusts to deliver high-quality care while optimising resources. Remember, getting it right first time applies to more than just clinical care – it encompasses financial operations too.