Background: Background: As healthcare systems evolve to provide more efficient and patient-centered care, the utilization of ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) has become increasingly common. These centers offer a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional inpatient hospitalization for a wide range of surgical procedures. However, proper preoperative evaluation and decision-making are critical to ensure patients are receiving surgical care in the right setting. Integrating hospitalists into the preadmission testing area of ASCs is a novel approach that aims to enhance the patient experience, optimize resource utilization, and improve surgical outcomes.
Purpose: Purpose: The purpose of this innovation is to integrate hospitalists in the preadmission testing area of ambulatory surgery centers and assess the impact on patient safety, satisfaction, and the overall quality of care. By involving hospitalists in the consultation process, the ACS team receives immediate feedback on the ability to perform surgery in the ASC.
Description: Description: In this innovation, we introduce a model where hospitalists collaborate with ASC surgical teams during the preadmission testing phase. Hospitalists, who possess a broad knowledge of medical conditions and their management, work alongside the surgeons to thoroughly evaluate patients, review medical histories, and provide expert input regarding the appropriateness of the surgical center versus inpatient admission. The consultation process is documented, and patients are informed of their candidacy for ASC vs traditional hospital level surgery location.
Conclusions: Conclusions: Preliminary findings indicate that the inclusion of hospitalists in the preadmission testing area of ASCs has resulted in improved patient placement, decreased perioperative complications, and heightened patient satisfaction. Doctor-to-doctor discussions during this process have increased interdisciplinary communication, ensuring that the right decisions are made for the patient’s well-being. By optimizing surgical care settings, we can enhance patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and create a more patient-centered healthcare system. The incorporation of hospitalists into ASCs’ preadmission testing areas appears to be a promising strategy for improving the surgical journey for patients, ensuring that they receive surgery in the most suitable location, and fostering effective interprofessional collaboration.