Reduced Elective Surgery Cancellations Through Patient Involvement In Pre-Operative Planning In Norway

摘要

Surgery cancellations are undesirable in hospital settings as they increase costs, reduce productivity and efficiency, increase waiting lists, and directly affect the patient. The elective surgery cancellations problem in a North Norwegian University Hospital is addressed. Based on observations and interviews, conducted at the hospital, lack of information during the pre-operative planning was identified as the main cause of elective surgery cancellations. The problems with the existing pre-operative process were identified and a new process is proposed. By studying the pre-operative planning at the hospital, we have determined that part of the information flow can be moved to the patient at home. From the work presented herein, we conclude that the assessment information required during the pre-operative planning can be compiled in a personal health assessment questionnaire, and requested from the patient, at an earlier stage.