Grants for Environmental, Accessibility, and Workflow Improvements

Have You Applied to the Clinic Grants Program Yet? 

Once again, the Vancouver Division of Family Practice is offering grants to community family practice clinics looking to implement projects that enhance clinic operations, support staff, and improve patient experiences. The clinic grants program is flexible, straightforward, and has already benefited many clinics in previous years. Applications are due by December 9th, 2024, so start yours today by visiting the clinic grant page or contacting projects@vancouverdivision.com to receive an application link. 

Three Areas of Focus   

This year, the program is prioritizing three key areas: clinic environmental sustainability, accessibility, and workflow improvements. Note that tech-related projects now fall under the PMH Connectivity and Digitization Program. Let’s explore these focus areas in more detail. 

Clinic Environmental Sustainability 

Environmental sustainability projects are designed to help clinics become more environmentally friendly. Dr. Jay Slater, former Board Chair of the Vancouver Division, notes that these projects help clinics demonstrate a commitment to community health. “A clinic can reduce its carbon footprint, attract environmentally conscious patients, enhance the practice’s reputation, foster patient loyalty, and potentially lower its operational costs,” says Dr. Slater. 

Examples of projects clinics might consider include: developing an environmental sustainability procurement policy or manual, installing energy efficient lighting, or creating patient-facing informational materials.   

Clinic Accessibility 

This category includes accessibility initiatives related to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI). For example, last year, Keefer Medical developed an algorithm to screen and implement preventative procedures for elderly patients. “JEDI quality improvement projects are a win-win for the whole clinic,” says Dr. Herman Lee of Keefer Medical. “They inspire and stimulate thinking outside the box.” 

Additional projects clinics might consider include: installing a check-in system that accommodates blind and deaf patients, building a wider door to an exam room to better accommodate patients in wheelchairs, or enrolling the clinic team in a JEDI related workshop or training session. 

Clinic Workflow Improvements  

Projects focused on workflow improvements offer benefits to patients, staff, and the clinic as a whole. “Streamlining processes can enhance patient satisfaction, staff morale, and boost overall productivity and cost-effectiveness,” says Dr. Claire Rawson, Medical Director and Family Physician. 

Examples of projects clinics might consider include: digitizing files, translating patient facing materials to other languages, or creating a procedures manual. 

Environmental Sustainability and Accessibility Assessment Tools (NEW!) 

Would you like to take advantage of this funding opportunity, but don’t know where to get started? New for 2024 are the environmental sustainability and accessibility assessment tools. The tools prompt users with questions about measures already in place at their clinics and provide tailored project recommendations based on their responses. “You’re not just answering questions; you’re receiving insights from experts on best practices in each area,” explains Vancouver Division Project Manager Julienne Hills. Participants also receive a list of vendors and service providers to support their chosen projects. 

Program Impact and Popularity 

Last year, the program supported 132 clinic projects involving 430 physicians, contributing to a wide range of initiatives. Participants gave overwhelmingly positive feedback, saying the grants helped improve patient and staff experiences, optimized clinic operations, and enhanced overall patient care. “These grants are critical, at a time when running a primary care office is becoming increasingly financially difficult, organizationally challenging, and professionally demanding,” replied one participant. “The program could not be simpler,” noted another. 

Apply for a Clinic Grant Today 

While the application process is designed to be user-friendly, time is limited. The deadline is December 9th, 2024, so interested clinics should apply soon. For more information, please visit the clinic grant page today or contact projects@vancouverdivision.com to receive an application link.

Watch our brief video to learn what you can do with a grant here.