Exploring Factors Leading to Same-Day Cancellations of Elective Surgical Procedures

Journal Name: British Journal of Healthcare Management (ABDC-C)

The paper investigates a critical area that is often overlooked in hospitals – operational inefficiencies that contribute to last-minute surgical cancellations. This study explores operational inefficiencies within hospital systems that result in same-day cancellations of elective surgeries – an issue that not only affects resource utilization and patient experience, but health system credibility as well. Through a detailed analysis, the paper identifies administrative ambiguities, process gaps and communication breakdowns as key contributors to cancellations. The authors identify key areas where collaborative interventions can significantly enhance the efficiency of elective surgical procedures, reduce resource wastage in operating theatres and improve patient satisfaction. The study assumes increased relevance given the high uptake of tertiary care in India, and is relevant for healthcare policy makers, hospital administrators and healthcare quality improvement teams.