Optimization of Surgical Scheduling

Session
Surgical Services

Authors
Susan Seidensticker
Manager
Performance Improvement - Perioperative Enterprise
University of Texas
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

Stephanie Ramirez
Assistant Director
Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine
University of Texa
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

Description
The scheduling process is the cornerstone of the surgery. This presentation will share the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Centers efforts to improve its ability to support a growing surgical practice.

Abstract
One of the major initiatives of the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Centers Perioperative Enterprise is to optimize the use of the operating rooms through an effective and rule-based scheduling process. A multi-disciplinary team performed a diagnostic evaluation of the current process involving process mapping, cause and effect analysis, historical data analysis and stakeholder interviews.

Key findings of the team: *The critical need for a single portal for scheduling *Opportunities to improve standardization of nomenclature *Challenges of predicting case length in an Oncologic surgical practice *Challenges of pre-operative medical and administrative clearance *Challenges of coordinating multi-team cases for resection and reconstruction

Using value stream mapping and group process techniques, a prioritized list of solutions has been generated. The presentation will share the status of our implementation efforts.