Pushing the Envelope

Abstract

Synopsis In 2018, over 23 million ambulatory surgeries were performed in the US, representing the continued trajectory of procedures moving from hospitals towards ambulatory facilities. The primary incentives are improved costs, convenience, and patient satisfaction. Careful evaluation of patients, procedures, costs, and outcomes is required to be successful. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, surgeons and anesthesiologists must now pay attention to local, state, and federal guidelines developed to manage COVID-19: screening, testing, and PPE. A few positives have resulted from COVID-19: improved and more consistent facility hygiene, consistent mask usage, and social distancing. The rise of telemedicine in pre-anesthesia screening has facilitated Case flow, reducing same-day surgery cancellations while saving the everyone time and money.