An Alternative Model of Surgical Staffing: Improved Outcomes, Decreased Length of Stay, and Increased Hospital Profits – The Surgicalist Model


The Surgicalist Group evaluated the effect of implementation of a Surgicalist staffing model at a community hospital.

Under the Surgicalist staffing model, they were able to increase the urgent case volume from 0.8 to 1.83/day. Index cholecystectomy capture rose from 0.26 to 0.8/day and their LOS decreased from 2.1 to 1.7 days. Complications requiring a readmission were decreased by over 30%. ED physicians satisfaction was drastically improved with the Surgicalist model regarding their interactions with the surgeon on-call as well as their confidence patients were getting proper care.

Over $2.4 million additional hospital income was captured off cholecystectomies alone because of the Surgicalist model.

Learning Points:

  • The Surgicalist staffing model can increase the volume of surgical case captured via the Emergency Department
  • Simply having “call coverage” does not guarantee good patient care
  • The Surgicalist model significantly decreases length of stay for the most common urgent surgical procedures
  • A dedicated team of Surgicalists improve Emergency Department Physician satisfaction and confidence in regarding patient care


Fill out the form to download the Whitepaper.

TSG Logo - RGB-01 - Maggie Moran

I would like to also add the following learning opportunities to my registration:

  • Behavioral health is under pressure. How some leaders are cutting claims denials by 25% — here. - January 29th at 12:00 PM CT - Learn Now
  • Cedars-Sinai, Carle Health + more reveal a blueprint for AI adoption and driving ROI, here. - February 6th at 1:00 PM CT - Learn Now
  • Finding top talent shouldn't be hard. How system leaders are streamlining recruitment, here. - February 20th at 12:00 PM CT - Learn Now
  • Learn 6 common areas where health systems need support during a Workday transformation — here. - Read Now
  • Dental + DSO Virtual Event - Thursday, January 23rd, 2025 - Learn Now