From NASA to the OR: How to Launch On-time Starts

Based on research by our own Gerry Biala, MSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM, and Kimberly Moyers, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM, OR Manager's Catherine Spader, RN, highlights how Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital took a giant leap in curtailing late starts in the operating room. In December 2016, the facility’s on-time start percentage was only 37%. Perioperative team members dug in their heels and, by August 2017, increased their on-time starts to 77%. They also maintained an average of 72% for 8 months. What was the secret that inspired success at this 114-bed community hospital?

Learn how to launch on-time surgical starts here.

Gerry Biala, MSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM Senior Vice President Gerry has expertise in optimizing the performance of all elements of surgical services and is highly skilled in facilitating and consolidating multiple departments and physician objectives into a unified plan to achieve desired results. He is the co-author of The Healthcare Executive’s Guide to Navigating the Surgical Suite, published by Sigma. Contact Gerry Office: 866-303-8968

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If you’re struggling with the allocation of your cases, Sullivan Healthcare Consulting can help. Contact a Sullivan Healthcare expert for a review of your perioperative staffing and resources.