A Model for Improving the Care Process in Major Outpatient and Short-Stay Surgeries

Abstract

Introduction: There are limitations in the coordination between the primary and secondary health levels in the outpatient and short-stay surgical processes, which affects the quality of the service.

Objective: Designing a proposal for a healthcare model for the improvement of the patient care process in major outpatient surgery and short-stay surgery.

Methods: A descriptive and prospective research was carried out from September 3, 2012 to March 20, 2018. Its design involved essentially modeling and the systemic-structural method. Surveys were applied to experts with experience in primary and secondary health levels, in order to assess the quality and relevance of the proposed model. The heads of the provincial groups of General Surgery and Family Medicine were also surveyed. Group interviews were conducted with clients of the research project (from which it is derived) and with institutional and provincial decision-makers. The methodological and source triangulation technique was used.

Results: The structuring of the model started from the coordination of the care and methodological work between the primary and secondary health levels. It was based on four pillars: theoretical training of health personnel, observance of relationship rules in the work context, compliance with procedures in the care context, and continuous assessment of the quality of care. The experts, clients and decision-makers recognized its quality, relevance and possibilities of implementation.

Conclusions: The model presents quality, is pertinent and its application is feasible.

Keywords: major outpatient surgery; short-stay surgery; organization and managment; model.