Case Study: Cuyuna Regional Medical Center achieves faster peri-operative patient flow and labor cost savings with Stryker (Vocera Communication System)

Hospital Implements Wireless Communication System to Improve Patient Flow in the Peri-operative Department

Cuyuna Regional Medical Center (CRMC), a small rural hospital with five operating and two endoscopy suites, faced escalating demand after launching an advanced minimally invasive surgical program. With limited space to add rooms, staff struggled with slow, fragmented communication—relying on cell phones and footwork in sterile OR environments—which created delays, accountability gaps, and strained peri‑operative throughput.

CRMC implemented the Vocera hands‑free communication system (wearable badges) and partnered with Univ. of Minnesota to validate a simulation model. Results showed a 5% average cycle‑time reduction (~15 minutes per case), a 6.9% increase in cases per day, capacity for up to 253 additional cases/year (≈$2.1M potential revenue), and labor savings of up to $133,179/year (5.6% lower labor expense). The system also cut communication delays and steps taken, improved teamwork and accountability, and raised staff satisfaction.

Cuyuna Regional Medical Center

Mark Gujer

Director of Anesthesiology