The preoperative assessment clinic: organization and goals

The current challenge of preoperative evaluation is to perform value based, efficient and effective preoperative assessments which result in maximum operating room efficiency. In an era of diminishing health care resources, efficient organization and utilization of those resources available in the preoperative clinic will result in cost savings via reductions in operating room delays and cancellations. Effective organization can also reduce laboratory testing and the use of outside consultation. Fostering a patient-centered focus in the preoperative clinic can reap the additional benefits of increased patient satisfaction and confidence in the hospital and health care providers. © 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.