Communication and innovation
One weakness of some major medical institutions is that communication between physicians sometimes gets lost in the system. “But here,” Dr. Jarvis explains, “if I have a patient who needs a general surgeon, I can text one of my general surgeon partners and get an immediate response. That’s a unique environment we have, and that’s made it a pleasure to work here. Our partners and staff—this whole Harbin community—take an immediate and sincere interest in the patients’ care.”
This openness in communication fosters an environment where doctors are willing to share their ideas with one another and try new things. Dr. Dean says, “The Harbin brothers and the Harbin Hospital’s legacy created a standard of excellence. Harbin was one of the first to perform a blood transfusion in the state, use the first x-ray machine in Georgia, and perform the first laparoscopic hysterectomy in Floyd County. This culture of innovation still exists today.”
Changing and upgrading
The Harbin Clinic Women’s Center in Rome has recently renovated its workspace, improving the flow through the facility, making it easier for patients and visitors to find their way around. The new aesthetics make for a warm, welcoming environment. “Visiting a doctor’s office is a stressful experience for some people,” Dr. Dean says. “This place is now more open and relaxing; the colors are calming. And this is a better use of our space—more exam rooms, more procedure rooms. We’re able to do a lot more for our patients.”
“It’s more efficient,” Dr. Jarvis says. “That’s important because we try to respect our patients’ time as best we can.” Regarding the decision to renovate or relocate, Dr. Jarvis explains, “We all felt it was in our best interest, and in our patients’ best interest, to remain here on the hospital’s campus and renovate our existing space. This way, we are immediately available to the hospital and delivery. That’s an integral part of how we think; we really feel it’s vitally important that we’re close to the hospital.”
Dr. Dean says, “Being in close proximity to the hospital is a convenience for both the patient and the providers. If I’m on call, I can run back to the hospital to see a patient. Or if I’m in surgery I can ask another doctor to check on a patient in labor and delivery. We can easily help each other.”