The use of coaching to improve peri-operative efficiencies: the Ontario experience.

Abstract Coaching has traditionally been associated with sports, where coaches help teams and individuals focus on improving their athletic performance and achieving top results. Coaches do not play the game; rather, they stand on the side and provide advice and guidance to those who are playing. Increasingly, organizations are recognizing the value of coaching to develop and train leaders, managers and employees to become top performers. Ontario's Wait Times Strategy--which was launched in November 2004--adopted the concept of coaching to help hospitals improve access to services and reduce wait times.