Figure 3. Cross-functional workflow for expedient care of patients with transient ischemic attack (TIA).

Distinct sources for patient with TIA referrals are depicted in the two top swim lanes, leading to either an inpatient (green pathways) or an ambulatory (red pathways) evaluation. Segments common to both are depicted in black. Note how the inpatient evaluation pathway steadily moves in one direction (i.e., diagnosis, evaluation, then management), efficiently making use of the available physical resources in a sequential manner. Conversely, the ambulatory evaluation pathway requires that the patient be moved back and forth between the TIA clinic and the diagnostic facilities. The figure does not factor the time elapsed in completing either of these pathways, which is likely to be shorter for the inpatient evaluation. Note that the outpatient evaluation does not quite include management implementation, but just planning. EMS, emergency medical services.