Jeannette Y. Wick, RPh, MBA, FASCP

The average orthopedic surgical practice employs 5 surgeons and an additional 30 support personnel. In addition to the complexities of multiple surgeons working with each other and with local hospitals to meet the practice's mission, the practice needs to interface with regulators, insurers, and patients. The office manager is usually the person who coordinates all of these things, stays abreast of health care changes and informs practice partners on key business decisions. Because the manager's role is critical, surgeons need to understand the office manager's functions and responsibilities.

When used consistently, modified surgical safety checklists decrease adverse outcomes over time.

Depending on where patients live, their likelihood of undergoing surgical procedures can vary 3- to 10-fold.