Closing the Gap and Restoring Confidence Sooner: Reducing Nipple Areola Micropigmentation (NAM) Appointment Wait Times From 70 Days to 1 Day in The Center for Reconstructive Surgery

Authors

Enedra D. Allen-McBride, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterFollow
Lori Carew, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterFollow
Yvonne Patterson, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterFollow
Shalanda Skinner, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterFollow
Natasha Rutland, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterFollow
Monique Ryce, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterFollow

Files

Description

This poster highlights a nurse-led quality improvement initiative at the Center for Reconstructive Surgery aimed at reducing Nipple Areola Micropigmentation (NAM) appointment wait times for patients completing breast reconstruction after cancer treatment. Through targeted nurse training, standardized workflows, and optimized scheduling, appointment wait times were reduced from an average of 70 days to five days or less. This Magnet-aligned, nurse-driven model improved patient access and experience, increased staff engagement, reduced provider dissatisfaction, and delivered measurable clinical and financial value, demonstrating the impact of nursing leadership on sustainable, high-value care.

Category

Quality Improvement

Department

Center for Reconstructive Surgery

Recommended Citation

Allen-McBride, Enedra D.; Carew, Lori; Patterson, Yvonne; Skinner, Shalanda; Rutland, Natasha; and Ryce, Monique, "Closing the Gap and Restoring Confidence Sooner: Reducing Nipple Areola Micropigmentation (NAM) Appointment Wait Times From 70 Days to 1 Day in The Center for Reconstructive Surgery" (2026). Ambulatory Celebrate Improvements Fair 2026. 17.
https://openworks.mdanderson.org/acif26/17