The perioperative process: a system of providing quality, convenient, cost-effective surgical services.

In the current health care environment, many customary procedures, developed in an era when cost containment and market competition were not major concerns are no longer compatible with the operation of a successful surgery service. This article outlines a perioperative system that accomplishes the goals of cost containment and patient and surgeon satisfaction without sacrificing quality of care. This system entails streamlining the entire perioperative process, from the initial interface with the surgeon's office to discharge from the facility. In addition, the system eliminates unnecessary waste that remains rampant in most surgery departments, and addresses scheduling problems that limit efficiency.