In 2024, Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC) reached a transformative milestone with the opening of a Sterilization Department—a bold step in reinforcing patient safety, operational efficiency, and quality healthcare delivery. This initiative was not just about creating a new physical space; it marked a cultural shift toward proactive risk mitigation and continuous improvement.
Previously, sterilization efforts were housed within the Dental Department, where staff managed remarkably well despite space constraints. But with the organization growing and patient volume increasing, OKCIC recognized the need for a dedicated facility that could reduce the risk of cross-contamination and elevate infection control practices to the highest standard.
Centralized for Success
The result is a state-of-the-art sterilization center, purpose-built and currently supporting approximately 1,700 patient visits each month. By centralizing all sterilization functions, OKCIC has dramatically enhanced workflow efficiency, reduced instrument turnaround times from two hours to just 80 minutes, and added steps in the cleaning and decontamination process to better adhere to compliance standards—offering both clinical and financial benefits.
Advancing Patient Care Through Safety & Design
This project is a testament to OKCIC’s commitment to proactive safety measures. From the initial planning stages, a multidisciplinary team focused on designing a facility that would not only meet but exceed current safety and quality benchmarks. Every aspect—from spatial layout to the integration of cutting-edge sterilization equipment—was strategically engineered for optimal performance and adaptability to future advancements.
Perhaps most importantly, this initiative has helped foster a robust culture of safety. With a highly trained and specialized team now overseeing sterilization processes, there is greater accountability, consistency, and alignment with OKCIC’s mission of delivering safe, effective care. Early outcomes point to increased efficiency, improved patient outcomes, and a significantly reduced risk of infection.
Committed to Improvement
The launch of the sterilization department isn’t just a facility upgrade—it’s a bold statement of purpose. It reflects OKCIC’s forward-thinking mindset and unwavering commitment to excellence in healthcare. By investing in infrastructure, people, and innovation, OKCIC is not only improving patient care today but setting the foundation for even higher standards tomorrow.