Streamlining variability in hospital charges for standard thyroidectomy: Developing a strategy to decrease waste

Background We assessed the efficiency, consistency, and appropriateness of perioperative processes for standard (total) thyroidectomy and devised a valuable strategy to decrease variability and waste. Methods Our multidisciplinary team evaluated Results Median total charge for standard thyroidectomy was $27,363 ( n  = 80; $48,727 variation). Perioperative coordination between surgery and anesthesia clinics could eliminate unnecessary testing (potential decrease in charges of $1,505). Nonoperating room time was less in the outpatient operating room (43 vs 52 minutes; P $200,000 annually. Conclusion Perioperative process analyses revealed wide variability for a single, presumed uniform procedure. Systematic assessment helped to identify opportunities to improve efficiency, decrease unnecessary waste and procedures/instrument usage, and focus on patient-centered, quality care. This multidisciplinary strategy could substantially decrease costs/charges for common operative procedures.