Antimicrobial Drug-resistant Organisms Rising, Suggesting Risks for ASCs

The antimicrobial drug-resistance problem is getting worse, increasing risk for healthcare patients and workers in all settings. Another disturbing trend affecting the healthcare environment is the continuation of outbreaks of preventable infections, such as measles and mumps.

Mandate Staff Vaccinations to Prevent Infections

When one health system required immunization for all staff, compliance rose, thanks in part to the system offering all employees vaccines for free but also tying privileges to policy adherence.

Complying With Immediate-use Sterilization Rules

Daily huddles, schedule adjustments, and surgeon education led to a dramatic decrease in immediate-use steam sterilization rates at an ASC in Florida.

Physician Stress, Frustrations Can Lead to Depression, Burnout

Besides the stress of performing surgery, dealing with daily minor annoyances and clashing with colleagues can, over time, compound serious burnout.

Tactics to Increase Copay Collection

Copay collections at an ASC increased sixfold after the organization made some changes that included staff training and centralized registration.

Consider Ethics of Financial Toxicity to Patients

Financial toxicity is the financial burden or stress patients endure in response to the cost of their treatment or care in the healthcare system, including out-of-pocket expenses, deductibles, copays, and cost of health insurance.