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ASC Management 18 Engaged Medicine at ASCs: Videotape Can Promote Transparency & Patient Engagement By Mary Rechtoris M obile phones are integrated into almost every facet of our daily lives, with people record- ing anything from cliff diving in Switzer- land to even their medical procedures. Since its inception nearly 30 years ago, Center for Sight in Sarasota, Fla., has provided patients access to the proce- dure room via DVDs, and most recently, mobile phones. "We have been doing this for a while," says Peter Berden, Center for Sight's chief compliance officer. "The method has changed." Center for Sight aims to practice 'engaged medicine,' which involves directing resources to educate both patient and family every step of the way. Center for Sight's Founder David Shoemaker, MD, integrated videotaping, narration and observation of procedures into his practice to promote transparency and patient engagement. "Videotaping lets the patients know that surgery is not a scary process," Mr. Berden says. "It takes the mystery out of it." Videotaping surgeries is not a novel concept for Center for Sight, but the device recording the procedure has changed. With mobile phones, patients can designate a guest to vid- eotape the procedure directly on their phones in the obser- vatory. During the procedure, a narrator will discuss what the surgeon is doing step-by-step. Some ASCs may have privacy concerns about the videos, but Center for Sight ensures patients give permission to record the procedures. In fact, most patients are receptive to videotaping surgeries. "It is really exciting to watch patient leave amazed," Mr. Berden says. "A lot of patients want to show their family members and friends what their experience was like." With the tape, patients' family members and friend may serve as potential patients for Center for Sight. As healthcare trends toward transparency, taping surgeries can not only build a patient base, but can also foster enhanced provider- patient relationships. "If you have great surgeons who know what they are doing, it shouldn't be a problem," Mr. Berden says. "We were pioneers in recording surgeries and giving it to patients. It truly is a novel concept for the ASC industry." n Peter Berden Your opportunity to get knowledgeable counsel. We send physicians, nurses, administrators – professionals who live in the same world you do. That's why more than 6,000 organizations have chosen us. • We are the leader in ambulatory accreditation. • Our Standards are nationally-recognized. • Our surveys are consultative not just a checklist. Improving health care quality through accreditation Contact us to learn more 847-853-6060 • info@aaahc.org • www.aaahc.org A A A H C A C C R E D I T A T I O N { }