Provider Toolkit

Sequence of Aims

What sequence of aims should we follow? Work on the NIATx Aims in this sequence:

1. Reduce waiting times 2. Reduce no-shows 3. Increase continuation within one level of care 4. Increase continuation between levels of care 5. Improve outcomes 6. Increase admissions and referrals 7. Increase financial strength

Why? Accomplishing one aim contributes to accomplishing the next.

There are a number of reasons why you might not want to follow this sequence:

  • Waiting times are already short—same day service.
  • No-show rates are already low—less than 20 percent.
  • Continuation rates are already high—more than 80 percent.
  • Your financial strength is good and the payer mix is favorable.
  • Staff members are enthusiastic about a particular promising practice—the change will gain support for other projects.