Date of Graduation
Summer 8-31-2025
Document Access
Project/Capstone - Global access
Degree Name
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Program
MSN project
First Advisor
Dr. Cynthia Huff
Abstract
Problem: An outpatient epilepsy clinic receives reimbursement for services rendered based on three relative value units (RVUs). Nurse practitioners (NPs) in the clinic are not meeting their expected RVUs based on current productivity limitations.
Context: The clinic assessment revealed workflow gaps limiting NPs’ ability to increase productivity. The clinic is high-performing, and the staff worked collaboratively to improve the work RVUs. However, dissatisfaction can occur in other microsystems if collaboration breaks down.
Intervention: A microsystem assessment, NP interviews, and clinic template revisions were discussed with leadership and implemented.
Measures: Monthly productivity reports and pre- and post-intervention visit templates were collected and evaluated over one month.
Results: Visit volume improved 10% to 30% over one month, and NP satisfaction improved.
Conclusion: Improving the work RVUs requires a collaborative effort between clinical and administrative staff to coordinate effective care that impacts the financial aspect of the clinic. Future efforts are needed to address the identified gaps in the RVUs template.
Keywords: improving work relative value units (RVUs), productivity, performance, Medicare reimbursement, Medi-Cal reimbursement, healthcare providers, optimization, process
Recommended Citation
Vaca, Amalia, "Optimizing Processes to Improve Relative Value Units for Healthcare Providers" (2025). Master's Projects and Capstones. 1923.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/1923
