The ever-increasing complexity of surgical care poses many challenges, and to stay on course, McLeod has adopted a compass of sorts—the Clinical Value Compass.

Foremost is an unwavering dedication to providing Patient Safety. McLeod's "Right-Site" Surgery program insures that the right operation is performed at the right spot. It starts with the patient marking the appropriate site of surgery with indelible ink, but also includes redundant crosschecks.

Before any incision, the surgeon, anesthesia and surgical teams "pause" to review the planned operation including a final verification of site.

Having a Professional Staff is equally important as patient safety. McLeod is fully staffed in surgery. Dr. Rose added, "Even more important are information systems and other technologies that are being implemented now that will automate many of the routine activities involved with preparing an operating room for surgery. This allows the staff to devote their full and undivided attention to patients instead of paperwork."

The next major effort in surgical services at McLeod includes the seven-story expansion of the McLeod Pavilion tower. This expansion scheduled to begin within the next three months, will greatly affect Patient Centered Care. An important part of the design is in asking current and former patients how the surgical staff can create a patient experience that is centered on them.

"Don't be surprised if during your stay as a patient at McLeod you are visited by hospital CEO Rob Colones or members of the senior management team," said Dr. Rose. Supply Chain Management.

During the last year, the McLeod Surgical Staff has adopted inventory and supply management innovations. Adopting these innovations has allowed McLeod to cut costs significantly. Savings derived from these improvements have allowed McLeod to invest in technology and people.