Team-Based Approach to Successful Annual Wellness Visits

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to implement a 2-phase approach to rapidly increase the number of annual wellness visits (AWVs) and build a sustainable model at 3 study units (Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, and clinics in 2 regions of Mayo Clinic Health System), which collectively serve approximately 80 000 patients who qualify for an AWV annually. Methods: In the rapid improvement phase, beginning in July 2022, goals at the facilities were reoriented to prioritize AWVs, educate staff on existing AWV resources, and create low-effort workflows so that AWVs could be incorporated into existing patient appointments. Staff at all 3 study units worked independently and iterated quickly. In the second phase, all study units collaborated to design and implement a best-practice solution while they leveraged the engagement and lessons learned from the first phase and invested in additional system elements and change management to codify long-term success. Results: The number of AWVs completed monthly increased in each study unit. In the rapid improvement phase, the number of AWVs increased but then plateaued (or decreased at some study units). In April 2023, the final scheduled outreach automation and visit tools were implemented, and the number of AWVs was sustained or increased, while outreach and scheduling times were decreased. The number of completed AWVs increased from 1148 across all study units in the first 6 months of 2022 to 14 061 during the first 6 months of 2023. Conclusions: The lessons learned from this project can be applied to other health systems that want to provide more patients with AWVs while improving operational efficiency. The keys are to have a clear vision of a successful outcome, engage all stakeholders, and iterate quickly to find what works best for the organization.