Outcomes generate income at Respiratory Services

CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. - Take care of the patient and the rest takes care of itself, says HME Excellence Award winner Respiratory Services of Western New York.

While it may not be that simple, Respiratory Services does focus on the clinical component first, knowing that it is what drives the financial end of the business. As owner Michael McCartney insists: “Don't ever lose sight of the importance of patient care.”

The HME Excellence Award runner-up won favor from the judging panel for its clinical focus, COPD management program and all-around solidness. That kind of performance doesn't happen by accident, McCartney said.

“It's not an easy task,” he said. “Because I'm a therapist and owner of the company, I have set the standards and expectations to my clinical staff. Each has their own projects and I hold them accountable. I'm very involved in the day-to-day operations.”

Operating a top-flight respiratory company is impossible without a staff of trained clinicians dedicated to going the extra mile for patients, McCartney said. Also essential is having an open line of communication with referral sources to get clear, accurate data for each patient's care plan.

“It comes down to follow through and follow up, while maintaining our company's standard of excellence and constantly keeping the bar raised on service and education,” he said. “That means constant interaction with top pulmonary physicians to make sure we are meeting their needs in care.”

Technology is critical to a clinically intensive field like respiratory therapy and McCartney says having the latest equipment has been a priority for his company.

“Being up to date on new technology in our products has made our therapists' quality of life much better,” he said. “We understand readmissions and how it affects the hospitals. We believe our commitment to the quality of care has tightened and remains stronger.”