Day Surgery and Observation Ward - A New Model in Delivering Obstetrical and Gynaecological Service

Abstract

A surge in out-patient workload and implementation of Enhanced Productivity Programme are two major issues most clinical departments in the public hospitals have to tackle. If in-patient beds could be cut significantly, it would result in major savings and can also spare medical staff to attend outpatient clinics. The Day Surgery and Observation Ward is a new concept in delivering obstetrical and gynaecological services with a function to decrease unnecessary admission and in-patient stay. Its scope of service include day surgery unit, observation ward, peri-operative assessment and special clinics. It is able to reduce 20 in-patient beds and provide a cost-effective obstetrical and gynaecological service. A patient satisfaction survey was conducted to assess patients acceptance to this new format of service. (HKJGOM 2001; 2: 89-95)