Though morbidity and mortality differences based on age might be expected, the degree of difference is staggering. Perioperative morbidity in older patients can be as high as twice that of younger patients, and mortality can be 3 to 7 times higher, finds a study in the Archives of Surgery. Another…

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How to charge for OR supplies is a frequent question OR business managers ask. In this column, Keith Siddel, MBA, an expert on health care business operations, responds to questions about supply packs and billing for endovascular procedures. The questions were posed by members of OR Manager's OR Business Management…

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Privileging (HR.02.01.03) was the toughest standard to meet for Joint Commission-accredited ambulatory care centers in the first half of 2009, with 45% of facilities surveyed out of compliance. Accreditation expert John Rosing, MHA, FACHE, comments on the elements of performance (EPs) that caused the most compliance difficulty. Rosing is with…

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Staying on top of credentialing and privileging requirements in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) is a daunting task. Credentialing applications need to be tracked; licensure, education, and other qualifications verified; databases checked for suspensions and any other adverse actions; and reappointments followed up. ASC leaders know accreditation surveyors expect all…

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An orthopedic service line has seen its volume rise and complications and costs go down since its surgical services director and chief of orthopedic surgery took the helm. Together, they have found they can drive change. It's an example of new types of collaborative arrangements hospitals are exploring with physicians.…

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An orthopedic service line has seen its volume rise and complications and costs go down since its surgical services director and chief of orthopedic surgery took the helm. Together, they have found they can drive change. It's an example of new types of collaborative arrangements hospitals are exploring with physicians.…

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How do we get to high-value health care—care that strikes the right balance between quality and cost? It's a question leaders will be facing as health care reform is implemented. What might that high value be like in surgical services? One place to look is Minnesota-based HealthPartners, a nonprofit integrated…

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How health care reform will affect hospitals and other facilities will be unfolding for years. There will be some time to prepare. Under the sweeping reform law passed in March 2010, the major expansion in insurance coverage won't take effect until 2014. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the reform legislation…

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