Authors

1. Smith, Bradford B. MD
2. Smith, Mark M. MD
3. Hyder, Joseph A. MD, PhD
4. Mauermann, William J. MD
5. Warner, Mary E. MD
6. Licatino, Lauren K. MD
7. Barbara, David W. MD

Abstract

Although ambulatory surgery offers patients convenience and reduced costs, same-day cancellation of ambulatory surgery negatively affects patient experiences and operational efficiency. We conducted a retrospective analysis to determine the frequency and reasons for same-day cancellations in an outpatient surgery center at a large academic tertiary referral center. Of 41 389 ambulatory surgical procedures performed, same-day cancellations occurred at a rate of 0.5% and were usually unforeseeable in nature. Focusing on foreseeable cancellations offers opportunities for enhanced patient satisfaction, improved quality of care, and systems-based practice improvements to mitigate cancellations related to areas such as scheduling or patient noncompliance.