Shouldice Hospital Limited is an 89 bed healthcare facility located in the suburbs of Toronto, Canada. The 17,000 square foot facility is housed on a sprawling 130 acre estate and specializes in repairing external abdominal hernias. Currently, 7,600 surgeries are performed each year on patients from all across the United States and Canada. Founded by Dr. Earle Shouldice circa 1940, the organization enjoys a reputation for effectively using a unique surgical technique to repair hernias that is considered superior to all others. The procedure includes early ambulation following surgery for rapid and effective recovery. The organization takes great pride in its “patient as boss” philosophy of service.
Shouldice Hospital is very successful primarily due to its unique service delivered by motivated and empowered staff in a friendly, comfortable environment. Patients are viewed as the boss, so the patient experience is positive. Staff and physicians are treated well so turnover is low. The demand for the Shouldice technique continues to increase, so the future can bring much opportunity if Shouldice management chooses to expand. Issues of expanding operations & generational differences are manageable. The organization is run well but continued success is hinged on the upcoming change in leadership.
The Shouldice competitive advantage boils down to 4 keys to success, which are the following: * Distinctive technique * Experienced staff * Comprehensive patient experience * Thoughtful employee policies
These 4 elements work in unison at Shouldice to promote healthy and happy patients, in addition to content and loyal staff. As the hospital itself states, “Shouldice Hospital is a total environment.”
How do you count for its performance ?
The Shouldice Method * Specializes in external hernias only. * Is a 45 minute procedure for first time repairs, * And a 90 minute procedure for