Dr. Johnstone noted that the proposed ACO rules scarcely mention anesthesiologists, who he said “provide patient care throughout hospitals and serve as the lifeline of modern medicine.” He said anesthesiologists might take advantage of ACOs by getting involved in medical homes, or care systems where every patient establishes an ongoing relationship with a primary care provider who coordinates patient care to promote good health.
He said anesthesiologists could assist primary care providers, who traditionally work from office settings, in coordinating acute care from preoperative clinics through surgical suites and critical care units to postoperative recovery. In this setting, anesthesiologists could serve as true ‘perioperative providers.’
Dr. Johnstone said anesthesiologist-led surgical homes will meet the first and third aims of healthcare reform as defined by Donald Berwick, MD, in a Health Affairs article. The first and third aims involve care and cost, while the second revolves around patient health.
Read the Anesthesiology News editorial by Dr. Robert E. Johnstone.
Related Articles on Anesthesia:
UCSD to Use Nitrous Oxide in Place of More Harmful Gases
Blood Pressure Medication Could Decrease Mortality Rates for Surgical Patients
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.