In today’s world, it’s common for many procedures to be done on an outpatient basis. For other procedures, patients may have a choice when it comes to having the procedure done on an outpatient or inpatient basis. That’s led to some changes, including for allied health personnel.
Specialize
To begin with, allied health personnel who want to work in outpatient facilities may find that the environment is less generalized than a hospital. Ambulatory surgery centers (ASC) and other outpatient centers are becoming more specialized and focused to allow for better patient care. ASCs are expected to continue to offer additional services, including minimally-invasive vascular procedures, in the outpatient arena.
Like hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers and other outpatient facilities offer a dynamic, team-driven environment where allied health professionals can grow their skills with a variety of interesting cases as they work alongside top care professionals. However, one major difference is that they can do this while enjoying a flexible schedule: no nights, no weekends, and no on-call shifts.
Shift in Focus
Moving procedures from hospitals to outpatient facilities has not happened overnight; it has been a gradual process, and it has resulted in a reduction of healthcare costs for patients. Consider one type of surgery as an example: some ambulatory surgery centers are already performing total hip and knee replacements, which account for 1.5 percent of total medical spending, at more affordable prices.
There are only so many hours in a day and only so many days in a week. As a result, hospitals’ surgical calendars can get very full very fast. Another benefit of moving procedures from hospitals to ambulatory surgery centers or other outpatient facilities is that it keeps hospital operating rooms available for the more complex procedures requiring acute care resources.
Infection Control
Germs are everywhere, and infection control is a critical factor in any procedure, no matter how minor, in any facility. However, controlling infections in an ambulatory surgery center or other outpatient facility may be easier than controlling them in a hospital because the ASC has a smaller space and a small number of operating rooms.
When a procedure takes place in a hospital, the hospital staff takes care of infection control. However, going home sooner, as from an outpatient procedure, can help avoid infection, too. It’s important to note that allied health professionals and other healthcare personnel will have to ensure that the patient and family are prepared for proper care when they leave an ambulatory surgery center. All members of the patient’s care team—including the support person or family members—should clean their hands. This can help keep the patient safe from surgical infections and other complications.
We’re Here to Help
At 365 Healthcare Staffing Services, we specialize in the recruitment and placement of healthcare professionals in per diem, travel, and permanent assignments in healthcare facilities across the country. Jobs change over time, and we’re ready to help allied health personnel adapt to those changes. We’re ready to help you when you’re ready for a new assignment. Give us a call at 310.436.3650.
