Cataract Outsourcing in 2020

/0 Comments/in , /by

2020 is a great year to ramp up your cataract business. In fact, in several ways, there has never been a better time to start outsourcing than now. The cataract climate is changing, and there are more and more reasons (practically & economically) to begin a cataract outsourcing partnership.

Just in case you didn’t know, Surgical Direct Inc provides a mobile cataract service that provides the latest cataract equipment to your OR with no capital outlay. Along with equipment provisions, we provide customized and flexible case supplies (eliminating in-house inventory) and highly-trained hands-on support during surgery.

Why Outsource in 2020?

1) Higher Medicare reimbursement rates are about to kick in.

We all know what this means…revenue loss. Investing in new equipment may not be the smartest option right now. Instead of being stuck with old equipment, outsource with SDI and we’ll outfit your OR with new technology and help you make up the difference.

2) Easily upgrade to 2 Rooms

In light of revenue loss, a great way to increase revenue is to do more surgery. But we all know that OR situations can’t always accommodate more surgery due to time, and not enough equipment. Surgical Direct provides the option to have 2 fully operational rooms on eye day, so you can get more surgery done in a day. Our cataract coordinators work directly with your OR staff, adding knowledge and able hands to each room on eye day,

3) Expand your practice with Satellite Surgical Locations

Adding satellite cataract locations in 2020 will broaden your market and increase your practice’s revenue. Surgical Direct makes satellite surgery easy. Our OD referral network allows you get connected with referrals so you can build up surgery days quickly. We work directly with the hospital to outfit the OR with all the equipment and supplies you need to operate and feel comfortable.

4) Inventory and Lens Management is so 2019

Every partnership with Surgical Direct allows you the option to drop inventory and let us take care of all the little details. We can provide all ancillary supplies like blades, cannulas, viscoelastics, drapes, and more. We configure customized pack-out lists that are tailored to the surgeon and facility. This cuts down your inventory management for eyes, freeing up time and space in your facility.

Plus, no more lens consignments! Surgical Direct can provide any lens, any time, including all premium lenses. We work directly with the surgeon’s office for lens picks, which are triple checked and brought to your facility with plenty of backups.

2020 is ripe for the taking and here at Surgical Direct, our mission is to be the best cataract support team you’ve ever seen so you can focus on growing your cataract practice. Ready to learn more? Get in touch below.

Call Toll Free | 800-346-0544

Sign up for a FREE Demo Day

More about our Mobile Cataract Services

Cataract Headwinds Will Change Revenue

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Now is a Good Time for Eye Outsourcing

The ever-changing landscape of the ophthalmology specialty (specifically in cataract practice) can prove to be a tough market to forecast when it’s a good time to invest in technology. The past held much more certainty regarding the security of investment when purchasing Cataract equipment. And even though the baby-boomer cataract age is here, that doesn’t mean there is certainty in ROI, due to the constant evolution of the medical industry and the changing cataract headwinds on the horizon.

What do we mean by “Cataract Headwinds”? Headwinds change climates, spear-heading an area into a new season. We believe there are 3 things on the horizon that can change the climate of cataract surgery as we know it, all 3 creating unique twists to ROI.

1) Cataract Surgeon Reimbursements

This one, in truth, isn’t really a headwind. It’s already here. In 2020, Medicare reimbursements for cataract surgeons will drop, maybe as much as 15% for non-complicated procedures. That’s a hit! Read through Review of Ophthalmology’s article titled “Medicare Proposes Another Cut In Cataract Reimbursement” for yourself for more info.

Having the need to increase your case volume to make up the difference makes profitability more challenging. Eliminating capital investments and/or adding satellite locations to your practice can help increase your revenue by reducing overhead and increasing market expansion. Our mobile cataract program is the perfect partnership for satellite locations!

2) Office-Based Cataract Surgery

There has been much talk about Office-Based cataract surgery in recent years. The idea first came to the surface in the 80s and was quickly discarded due to the hurdles at the time. Healthcare and technology have rapidly grown since the 80s, and now the discussion is back on the table in many circles, and serious thought and trials are in place to determine whether this is the future of cataract surgery (at least non-complicated cases).

Despite this not being here yet (it’s a headwind), if brought into effect would change the cataract climate dramatically. Patients and surgeons alike would appreciate the benefits and convenience of the office-based approach. Any practice with the means would likely be very interested. Of the many questions on the table in this discussion, 1 would be technology investment, and 2, whether the office-based model will be a short-lived trend. Either way, let Surgical Direct take on the risk of providing equipment and technology.

3) Bi-Lateral Cataract Surgery

The “Two-for-One” cataract model has been in debate for some time. Initially, this model was frowned upon due to the risk of infection and longer recoveries, but recently the discussion is back on the table and CMS is looking at this model again.
Bi-Lateral case-coding for the second same-day eye will reduce the reimbursement rate on the second eye by 50%, so if thinking about offering bi-lateral cataract surgery, you have to take into account the loss in revenue that you’ll encounter on these cases.

Let Surgical Direct Take Your Cataract Technology Risk.

The bottom line is that in today’s cataract surgery landscape, there is a lot of risk in investing in new technology. Surgical Direct offers a turn-key, zero-risk solution for your cataract program. Our Mobile Cataract Service model provides the newest technology to your OR of choice, full-service case supply management (including lenses), and no capital fund investments. You only pay for our service when you use our service.

Want to know more about Surgical Direct and our services? Check out our recent post about 5 Headaches Eliminated with Mobile Cataract Services to see how Surgical Direct can help alleviate your cataract surgery woes.

Call Toll Free | 800-346-0544

Sign up for a FREE Demo Day

More about our Mobile Cataract Services

The Power of Having Options

/0 Comments/in , /by

One of the most powerful things that Surgical Direct’s Mobile Cataract Service model delivers is the ability to expand your options and open the door of what’s possible. Options in technology. Options in case supplies and lens selections. Options in location. Having options means having freedom! Having the freedom to make changes or try new things, gives you (the cataract surgeon) the ability to become a better surgeon.

3 ways that having cataract surgery options make you a better surgeon.

 

1) In Technology.

When it comes to purchasing equipment, there can be a lot of pressure both for surgeons and surgical facilities to pick the absolute right machine. The surgeon needs to be comfortable with the machine and know that it’s the best choice for his/her surgical style (and ultimately the patients’ outcomes). We’ve seen this repeatedly that a surgeon (after demoing a machine) decides to move forward and purchase, then 2 months later realizes he/she does not like something about the machine. But at this point, it’s too late because the facility has already invested heavily. The surgeon then feels stuck and obligated to use a machine that doesn’t feel right anymore….oftentimes for years. Another common issue in this department is that new technology is released often in Ophthalmology. Keeping up can be expensive. Or what if there are 2 cataract surgeons in the same facility that want different machines?

Having the technology options that Surgical Direct provides can reduce the pressure to commit and allow for flexible technology use without heavy investments.

2) In Case Supplies.

We know that as a surgeon, it’s important to have confidence in decision making during a case. You know what is best for the patient and the scenario that you are dealing with. When you need something, it’s important that you are able to access that instrument or supply quickly, and the support team should have even sparsely used supplies within reach for these situations. The problem that we have run into in the field is that often times, multi-specialty surgical facilities will only carry what’s absolutely necessary. This can create an uneasy feeling, not fully knowing if what you need is even in the building!

Having case supply options that Surgical Direct provides reduces worry over inventory management issues. We provide all the supplies you request PLUS backups, including lenses, case supplies, and on-call items like rings, vits, AC lenses and more.

3) In Surgical Locations.

Partnering with Surgical Direct gives you the option to access the same surgical experience in multiple locations. As a surgeon, your best surgery and surgical outcomes come when you are comfortable in your operating environment. Surgical Direct provides you the option to use the same technology, case supplies, and dependable service in ALL your surgical locations, which can be a powerful growth tool for your practice.

Having options gives you the power to operate the way you want to operate.

Have questions about how our services work? Read through our onsite testimonials and hear for your self what other surgeons and surgical admins have to say about our services.

Call or click below.

Call Toll Free | 800-346-0544

Sign up for a FREE Demo Day

More about our Mobile Cataract Services

Successful Satellite Cataract Surgery

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Satellite surgery is a very effective way to grow revenue for your ophthalmic practice, and as mentioned in our previous blog on upcoming Cataract Reimbursement Changes, satellite surgery is a reliable way to regain lost revenue after the new reimbursement cuts take effect.

Half the battle in a successful satellite cataract surgery arrangement is the startup!

Surgical Direct Inc (SDI) simplifies the process in 4 primary ways:

4 Ways SDI Simplifies Satellite Cataract Surgery.

 

1) Referral Network Connections

SDI is well connected. If you are a surgeon and you approach us with the desire to start a satellite connection, we do the legwork in connecting you with referring ODs in your desired satellite region. If you are a surgical facility with a desire to add cataract cases but have no equipment (or capital for equipment), we provide the latest technology directly to your facility on surgery day at no upfront cost. Have no surgeon connections? Not a problem! We simply connect the dots in our referral program, connecting you with surgeons who are ready to take on surgery in your area. It’s a win-win-win!

2) Supply Management & Coordination

A big detail in starting a new surgery in your facility is supply management and inventory. For Cataracts, there are quite a few supplies needed for a normal case, but additional items that must be on hand in case of an unexpected instance during surgery. With Surgical Direct, you don’t need to worry about supplies (even back up supplies) or lenses. We coordinate with surgeons and facilities, filling the gaps, and often providing the majority of case supplies, alleviating inventory hassle for the facility, and ensuring the surgeon has everything he wants and needs…every time!

3) Full-Service Facility Setup

So what happens on surgery day? Our surgical coordinators arrive at your facility at least 1 hour before surgery starts, start setting up equipment and unloading case supplies for the day. They will dress-out, wheel-in the clean equipment, and prime/test to ensure that everything is ready to go well before the surgeon arrives. They will also hand-off/coordinate supplies for the day, working directly with your OR team. But that’s not all! Our coordinators offer knowledgeable and aware support during surgery. This includes machine setting adjustments, sterile supply opening, room-turnover, troubleshooting, and more.

4) Stable Equipment Provisions

No surgeon wants to use equipment that is not dependable. At Surgical Direct, we do our best to alleviate any equipment issues during surgery. All of our equipment is regularly maintained and always up to date with the manufacturers’ preventative maintenance specifications. However, we’ve been doing this long enough to know that unexpected things happen and even perfectly maintained equipment can act up. That’s why we also provide backup equipment (onsite or on-call) for every surgery day to minimize OR time as much as possible and keep the day running smoothly.

Surgical Direct reliably provides a stable turn-key solution for Ophthalmic technology access. We offer and deliver the best surgical service, platforms, devices, and supplies in cataract outsourcing.

We make the option of satellite cataract surgery a reality.

Want to know more about Surgical Direct and our services?

Click through below to gain access and let us know what we can do for you.

Call Toll Free | 800-346-0544

Sign up for a FREE Demo Day

More about our Mobile Cataract Services

Your Personal Cataract Concierge

/0 Comments/in , /by

Chances are that if you are reading this post, you know that Cataract Surgery is a delicate and complicated surgical procedure. Despite the surgery’s high success rate and seemingly “routine feel” in comparison to other medical specialties, Cataract surgery has very fine margins that if off by millimeters could cause negative post-surgical outcomes. Surgical Direct provides the latest technology available on the market. This, in effect, provides the surgeon with safer parameters then older machines can provide, which means better outcomes. New Phaco technology continues to improve and provide the surgeon with a safer environment in which to work. New microscopes provide better and better optics and light illumination for the surgeon to see better during the operation. Equipment, instrumentation, lenses, and supplies all play vital roles in assisting the surgeon to achieve the best possible outcome for their patients (all of which, we provide). On top of all of those details, we believe that the people in the room are equally important and play a major role in the success of the surgery.

The Surgical Direct Cataract Coordinator – Your “Cataract Concierge”

A vital part of our Mobile Cataract Service model is our Surgical Coordinators. Our coordinators are highly-trained, hands-on, friendly, always on time, and valuable members of the “eye team”.

1) Equipment Knowledge

Surgical Coordinators at Surgical Direct go through 3 months of intense training before flying solo. This gives them a solid base of knowledge to support your team in any scenario. The 3 months covers all the aspects of what it means to be a Surgical Direct representative, including knowledge of the surgical procedure, surgical steps/technique, the anatomy of the eye, and how the equipment works. Our coordinators are trained to operate, maintain, program settings, and troubleshoot the equipment if problems arise onsite. This brings another layer of assurance to the OR and your team on eye day.

 

2) Instrumentation & Supply Knowledge

In addition to equipment, our coordinators are trained in instrumentation and supplies related to cataract surgery. This gives the coordinator an edge in assisting the surgeon and staff when special instrumentation is requested, lens replacements are needed, etc. Our senior coordinators sometimes blow some of our surgeons away with the knowledge they’ve acquired. We believe that information and knowledge play a big part in keeping consistency in the OR.

3) Awareness, Awareness, Awareness!

Awareness is an important aspect of pre-emptive action. We believe that our coordinators are the best in the field, and their attention to detail and awareness of what is going on in the room is one of the reasons why. For example, especially in a scenario where our coordinators are familiar with the surgeon and his process, they quickly become familiar with what is normal and what is not.  They typically know what stage of the surgery the surgeon is in at all times…based on time, instrument requests, and tone. This attention and awareness gives the coordinator the pre-emptive ability to know when something may be out of the ordinary, and what instrumentation to have on hand just in case. Our surgeons are often amazed by the level of preparedness that we carry, and are very grateful for it. Consistency supports better outcomes.

4) Service Team Mindset

There is nothing that our coordinators are too “big” for. Our goal is to be part of the team and provide support as much as possible. We help open sterile supplies (and are trained annually in technique and best practices). We wipe down tables and assist with turnover. We take out the trash. We unlock and re-lock Microscope arms, hold chairs for the surgeon as they sit down, adjust oculars, run to the clean-core to look for a peel-packed instrument, flush hand-pieces….the list goes on. This is where we get the idea of being a concierge. We are here to serve and provide you with the industry’s best mobile cataract service support. Period.

Want to know more about Surgical Direct and our services? The best way to learn about us is to sign up for our Free Demo Day and try us out for a day. This will give you the full effect of what we carry as a service, and how we can help streamline your cataract program.

Questions? Give us a call anytime! We are here to answer your questions.

For more information, browse our services page for all the details.

Call Us

Sign up for a FREE demo Day

What All does SDI Offer?

Preparing for Cataract Equipement Failure

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Cataract Equipment failure can be a big source of frustration in your OR on surgery day, bringing the potential for surgery cancellations, revenue loss, and unhappy patients and surgeons. Phaco Machines, Phaco Handpieces, Microscopes, and Instruments all play vital roles in surgery and all have the potential for failure. Honestly, it’s inevitable that your OR will experience it at some point. Even if the smallest component of any of the prior mentioned equipment is not fully functional, it can really put a damper on the day.

How do you prepare, making sure that equipment failure does not hinder your surgery day and cause delays or cancellations?

4 ways to be ready for Cataract Equipment Failure.

1) Acquire basic knowledge of how the equipment works.

One of the most valuable tools in dealing with equipment failure is diagnosing the problem.  Knowing what might be causing the issue will help you determine whether it’s a simple issue (ie the tubing line detached from the handpiece or the phaco tip is loose), or a deeper problem (ie the software is malfunctioning). Valuable knowledge of the equipment and how it works can be the difference between a 2 min delay and an entire day of cancellations.

By partnering with Surgical Direct Inc, the pressure on your staff is eliminated! Our knowledgeable and pro-active surgical coordinators play an active role in your OR. Each team member of Surgical Direct Inc. is skilled at resolving equipment failure issues, from diagnosis to solution, to keep the day moving as swiftly as possible.

2) Have backups available and in a designated location.

Having backup supplies and equipment is important to ensure that if an issue arises that cannot be diagnosed and addressed, then backup equipment is available to be substituted for the day. For small items like phaco-tips, tubing packs, and microscope light bulbs, this is a no-brainer. Even having extra peel-packed supplies like lens loaders, and backup instruments in case of contamination is smart. These backup supplies should be located in a designated location in the room for quick access. To take it a step further, having a backup Phaco machine and extra handpieces available (sterilized and ready) on site adds extra confidence to the staff in case deeper technical issues arise.

A partnership with Surgical Direct, means you do not need to purchase or manage stocking backup supplies or equipment. We provide ample amounts of disposable backups as well as equipment backups for every surgery day that you partner with us.

3) Have technical support contact info readily available.

There are times when equipment will fail, and you will not be able to diagnose what’s happening in a timely fashion. If within a few minutes, you cannot decipher what is happening, it’s a good idea to call technical support to try to find answers quickly. Often this contact may be the manufacturer sales representative, etc. Having their contact information close at hand and accessible in order to gain insight quickly can either shed light on a simple solution or be the deciding factor that backup equipment needs to be pulled into the room.

The point is to minimize case downtime as much as possible, and a partnership with Surgical Direct Inc., we provide professional surgical coordinators that will often be able to diagnose and resolve the issue. If the issue constitutes a manufacture service call, our backup equipment is ready to fill in. Additionally, we have excellent relationships with the manufacture vendors and reps and have their contact info ready in case additional support is needed.

4) Have a plan and inform the team.

A detailed plan of action that your surgical team is familiar with will help ensure swift resolve on what to do in case of cataract equipment failure. Training and communication on where backup supplies are kept, general knowledge of instrumentation and terminology, and a contingency plan will help keep everyone on the same page. This will also ease the “panic mode” that can set in when the unexpected happens, keeping everyone calm and on task.

Experience the peace of mind that partnering with Surgical Direct provides, by our customer-centric culture that continually raises the standard of excellent service will help make your cataract program thrive.

Equipment failures happen. We are prepared for the unexpected and that makes the difference when it comes to equipment failures. Partnering with Surgical Direct is the most efficient way for your facility to optimize in this area. Think of the cost savings of supplying backup supplies. Think of the savings on repair costs! Our team provides a deeper level of knowledge, experience, and assurance to the OR that no matter what happens, we help streamline your cataract days successfully and professionally.

Want to know more about Surgical Direct and our services? Check out Why a Cataract Outsourcing Partnership Makes Sense in 2019 to see how Surgical Direct can position your cataract program for growth.

Surgical Direct Inc is a partner that you can trust and depend on!

Call Us

Sign up for a FREE demo Day

What All does SDI Offer?

Adding a Second OR For Cataracts

/0 Comments/in , , /by

In the world of Cataract Surgery, safety is the #1 priority of all OR staff and surgeons during eye-day. In our 20+ years of experience in offering premium Mobile Cataract Services, we’ve realized that a very close #2 priority on eye day is efficiency. Everyone involved (surgeon, staff, and patients) are busy people with things to do, places to go, and people to *see (no pun intended). This makes surgical efficiency a high-priority for cataracts, and one of the best ways to increase your efficiency is adding a second room. However, for many, there are obstacles in the way of achieving the next level of efficiency, and Surgical Direct can make a 2nd room service possible for you and your community.

We have learned the increasing value a surgeon places on a streamlined 2nd room operation in ophthalmology, and by inviting Surgical Direct into your picture, together we can accomplish a larger reach of service to your community. The results are clear! Surgeons are pleased, your staff is supported, and now your facility is maximizing available OR time without costing you more capital.

Adding a Second OR for Cataracts is easy with Surgical Direct.

 

The beauty of partnering with Surgical Direct’s Mobile Cataract Service is that limitations are reduced dramatically and possibilities and options are increased.

 1) We provide double the equipment.

Since the facility no longer needs to purchase Phaco machines, microscopes, and hand-pieces, confining your surgeon to one room is no longer an issue. On 2 room days, we provide all the equipment required for 2 rooms to operate safely and efficiently. This saves the facility upwards of 6 figures in capital investment, maintenance, repairs, and other unexpected costs.

2) We provide double the support.

Having enough equipment to have 2 rooms running doesn’t always make the day more efficient. The team of people that work in the room is what does! Having the right amount of support staff is vital to keep the day moving efficiently. That’s why we provide 1 technician per room on 2 room days. This increases the manpower, technical support, and teamwork in each room so that those 8-15 minutes cases stay 8-15 minutes. We also help with turnover, so that the surgeon can bounce between rooms without waiting. A day that stays on schedule, is a GOOD day!

3) We provide double the supplies.

2 room days typically means a lot of cases. A lot of cases means a lot of supplies. No matter the surgeon and his supply preferences, 12-20 cases in one day calls for a large amount of inventory. Surgical Direct provides all inventory needs for your cataract cases (except for meds). For 2 room days, we fill our cargo vans (sometimes to the roof) with equipment and supplies for a single 2 room day. Think of the shelf space you’ll be saving. Think of the time you’ll be saving in inventory if you didn’t have to order, receive, unpack, and shelf all of that inventory every time the surgeon is scheduled. And since we are on the subject of inventory, we must mention lenses. If the surgeon is doing (eg) 15 cases, you’ll also need about 45 lenses (primary + 2 backup) ready and accounted for before the day starts. With Surgical Direct as a part of your team, you don’t stock case supplies or manage lens consignments. We bring it all with us morning of, and at the end of the day, take all the excess back with us.

So here’s the recap.

Surgical Direct is your partner for all cataract surgical needs for 1 or 2 room days. We provide the latest ophthalmic technology available directly to your OR on surgery day including Phaco machines, microscopes, disposables, lenses, and highly-trained technical support. Surgical Direct is the solution you’ve been looking for to streamline your surgical and operational efficiency. Don’t just take our word for it, read through our testimonials and hear it from our customers.

Interested in finding out more?

Give us a call today at 1-800-346-0544 or email us at sales@surgicaldirectinc.com.

We also offer a Free Demo Day where you can evaluate our services for a day for FREE.

Not in the market for cataract services? Maybe you know someone in your network of surgeons, hospitals, or ASC’s that does. We love referrals!

Call Us

Sign up for a FREE demo Day

What All does SDI Offer?

The Ins and Outs of IOL Lens Management

/2 Comments/in , /by

In Cataract Surgery, there are many integral parts of the procedure that need a high-attention to detail for that patient to have optimal results. But one of the most important aspects of cataract surgery and its success rate is the IOL Lens Implant.  The surgeon has taken much time and focus on making sure that calculations for the lens implant are dead-accurate. Having the right lenses, specialty lens picks, plus backups for everything just in case is very important, not only for a smooth day but for the patient! Let’s walk through some of the ins and outs of IOL lens management and how we take care of the WHOLE IOL process at Surgical Direct. 

IOL Lens Management is a BIG JOB. 

1) Before Surgery Day

As we already mentioned, the IOL implant is one of the most crucial aspects of cataract surgery. It’s extremely important to be over-prepared in this department, ready for any unforeseen issues that may arise during the case.

Every cataract case should have measurements for 3 possible lens implants, 1) A primary lens, 2) A Sulcus (3-piece) implant, and 3) an Anterior Chamber lens. It’s important to have all 3 of those lens picks available for that specific case. Each of those lenses is requested for specific case scenarios. If the capsule is unstable, the surgeon may request his Sulcus Implant. If a deeper issue arises, the surgeon may request an AC lens. Generally, the primary lens will be implanted in the 85-90th percentile of cases (some situations could be less or more). But for that 10-15% of cases that need a backup lens opened, generally it’s not an optimal scenario for the surgeon, and not having the right lens can make a stressful situation even more stressful.

We say all of that to say, preparedness is crucial!

Let’s say that your surgeon brings 10 cases per surgery day. That’s an immediate 30 lenses that need to be accounted for on that day (from 3 different consignments). That doesn’t include making sure you have backup lenses in case of contaminations. That also doesn’t include the scenario that your surgeon may be requesting premium lenses (like Torics or Multi-focals), or different brands/models throughout the day.

Let’s give you a quick example of scale. In the Toric market alone, now very popular for astigmatism correction, Alcon has 9 levels of correction power. That means that there are 9 different models of Toric that your surgeon may ask for. Each model has a 6-30 Diopter range in half diopter intervals. The leading manufacturers in IOL implants (like Alcon and J&JVision) come out with new models and technology every year. And now, there are Toric-Multifocals that also have different models with different correction powers. With all the different options available today, the days of just having 2-3 consignments to meet all the surgeon’s IOL needs are coming to an end, if not already over.

It’s important to keep pace with this because surgeons will likely request the new technology when it’s available and giving them the opportunity to do so can improve patient satisfaction and offer a higher level of care.

So back to prep, before the day even begins, all of the requested lenses need to be ordered, organized, checked for expiration/contamination, and ensure there are adequate backups for any unforeseen issues. Ask anyone who manages lens consignments….it’s a lot of work. But it doesn’t stop there…

2) During Surgery Day

During surgery, the lenses need to be ordered carefully to be sure that there is NO confusion on which lens is right for that patient. It takes the whole room being focused and aware that the lens that is opened is THE right lens that the Doctor has asked for. Double-checking (even triple-checking) is highly recommended. Every lens will come with its specific manufactured lens implantation device (generally an injector and a cartridge) that needs to be ready in order to properly inject the lens. When you get into having 2-3 different styles of lenses, there needs to be a lot of attention to detail on which lens is being opened and which corresponding injector system needs to be ready. Each lens will come with implant stickers that need to be charted and reported for that patient, not only for medical records but for manufacture implantation reporting and consignment re-ordering purposes.

All of that preparation and work is for a normal, routine case. What if there is a problem with the implant? What if a lens is contaminated? What if a lens is implanted, then explanted due to unforeseen problems? There is extra paperwork that needs to be processed for that specific lens and case.

3) After Surgery Day

An equal amount of effort used in prep and during surgery also needs to be put towards your lens consignment post surgery. Every lens opened and implanted needs to be documented and accounted for. Every lens will have a card that needs to be filled out and sent back to the manufacturer for reporting purposes. Then, you’ll need to process a report for your lens consignments to be refilled. Special reporting needs to happen for lens returns. And all of this has to be done in a timely fashion so that the consignments are fully restocked before the next surgery day (at which the process starts all over again). Shipping costs on lenses and time allotted for restocking your consignments must be considered as well.

Here’s the good news you’ve been waiting for.

Are you ready for it?

Surgical Direct provides a mobile cataract service that not only provides your facility with the latest cataract technology without spending a dollar of capital funds, but we also manage the entire lens process for you!

In addition to supplying state-of-the-art cataract equipment, disposable supplies, and an ‘on-the-ball’ technician, we manage over 50 in-house lens consignments from 3 different lens manufactures, including back-up and specialty lenses like Torics & Multi-Focals. 

Our in-house full-time lens & inventory manager has been managing our lens processes for over 7 years. He spends a considerable amount of time every week on followup with doctors’ offices, coordinating needed lenses for every surgery day, and ensuring we provide the right lens for every patient. If a lens exists and the surgeon asks for it, we can provide it. We take care of all lens requests from the surgeon’s office, lens ordering, special ordering, consignment replenishments, shipping, receiving, and re-stocking.

How much time does your lens management take away from your week?

Call us today and let us take this off your plate! You can try our services first hand for FREE. Sign up for our Free Demo Day and experience Surgical Direct first hand at no charge. (see demo day page for full details).

For an in-depth full listing of what we offer at Surgical Direct, Click Here. 

Call Us

Sign up for a FREE demo Day

What All does SDI Offer?

3 Vital Components for a Smooth Eye Day

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Here at Surgical Direct, we’ve been supporting OR facilities and Ophthalmologists achieve smoother (more efficient) surgery days for nearly 20 years. We’ve picked up a few methods, routines, and systems along the way that can help refine the operations of a cataract surgery day, to be as smooth as possible. Of course, every facility will have its own methods and preferred ways of doing things, and we are always supportive and collaborative. Likewise, surgeons are always in command of the room and have the ultimate say on how things will go. That being said, cataract surgery (and the overall motion of the day) is going to look slightly different in every facility. But there are 3 things that we’ve come to firmly believe in that are the basis a smooth cataract day, no matter the facility.

Here are the 3 absolute necessities for a smooth cataract surgery day. 

1) Reliable, State-of-the-art Equipment

 

There is nothing more frustrating (for staff, surgeon, and patient) than preparing for a big surgery day, only to be met with equipment failures. When equipment fails to work properly, not only does it put the patient at risk (which is the most important factor), but it has the potential to cause unwanted stress over a loss in monthly revenue, rescheduling cases, calling in repairs with service reps, and the unexpected repair costs. When you partner with Surgical Direct,  you significantly lower your risk of letting equipment failure ruin your surgery day. Why? Because at Surgical Direct, we are committed to providing state of the art equipment that works every time. Our equipment is manufacture maintained and surgery ready at all times, but just in case, we also supply backup machines to our accounts on surgery day. If any emergency issue should arise during the day with our equipment (even with our backup equipment), we are ready to run what’s needed to your site as soon as possible to avoid cancellations. You never have to worry about aging equipment again! Plus, you never have to pay for repairs again on cataract equipment.

2) All the right supplies

Having the right supplies ready and organized for each case is vital for the day to run smoothly. Forgetting to pull a certain supply for that special case can slow the case down, which slows your day down. Or there is always the event that your inventory shipment didn’t make it in time and you are low on a needed item. Having all the supplies (included those unexpected backup supplies and instruments) is crucial for a smooth day. When you partner with Surgical Direct,  we take care of all case supplies (including special supplies and lenses) for each of your cases. We always pack extra for the day, in case of contaminations. Plus our technicians are trained to know what the surgeon might need in certain scenarios, and they will be ready to produce that item that no one else in the room has heard of when the doctor requests it.

3) Co-ordinated Teamwork & Turn-over

Teamwork makes the dream work! What makes for a well-oiled cataract surgery machine is everyone in the room knowing their role, doing it well, and keeping a “patient-first” mindset. Who does what during turnover? Do you have enough hands in the room to open sterile supplies, position the bed, prime the machine, and adjust the doctor’s settings? When you partner with Surgical Direct,  you are given a seasoned and knowledgable technician in your room. Our techs are trained to be team players, helping the day move along however they can. From opening sterile supplies, cleaning handpieces, adjusting the doctor’s settings for him, taking out the trash, producing one-off supplies the doctor is asking for, and much more…..our technicians are what make Surgical Direct shine!

Surgical Direct provides a mobile cataract service that saves you time, money, space, and stress.

It really is simple. Surgical Direct will provide the latest cataract equipment to your facility when you need it (just for surgery day – even for 2 rooms days) so you don’t have to spend your capital on cataract equipment. Our equipment is manufacture maintained and routinely serviced with the same service contracts you would have if it were in your facility. We always provide a backup machine in case of equipment failure (because it does happen), and when it does, we pay for the repairs. We provide adequate handpiece volume for your surgery day caseload so surgeries can move along at a normal pace (even with today’s sterilization standards). We provide all the inventory you’ll need for surgery…including case supplies (drapes, blades, cannulas, viscoelastics, etc), instruments, lenses, and those rarely used backup supplies (excluding pre and post-op meds). And all of this comes at a per-case price that is only a percentage of your facility’s cataract reimbursement. OH, and did we mention no long-term contracts?

2019 is the year that you can upgrade your equipment without spending a dollar of capital and save money and time on inventory management. Read more about Why Cataract Outsourcing Makes Sense in 2019. 

Call us anytime with your questions! Or you can try our services first hand for FREE. Sign up for our Free Demo Day and experience Surgical Direct first hand at no charge. (see demo day page for full details).

 

Call Us
Free Demo Day

How much are cataracts really costing you?

/0 Comments/in , , /by

When purchasing cataract equipment (phaco machines and ophthalmic microscopes), not only do you have to take into consideration the initial cost but also the long-term expense it will take to keep your equipment maintained and surgery-ready. On top of that, cataract costs can go even deeper into your profit margins when managing your own inventory (case supplies, lenses, and special instruments like tonic markers and CTR inserters). Did you know that partnering with Surgical Direct can dramatically lower how much cataracts cost your facility?  What is the real cost of owning cataract equipment? Let us break it down for you…

What’s the real cost of owning cataract equipment and managing your own supplies?

1) Initial Capital

Easily the highest expense of owning cataract equipment is purchasing it. Purchasing cataract equipment (phaco machines, handpieces, and microscopes) can easily cost your facility over 6 figures in capital expenditure to be ready to facilitate cataract surgery (and if you are considering having 2 rooms operational for cataracts, double that figure). That’s no small dent. But the real challenge in the ophthalmic specialty is keeping up with how quickly new technology is released. Software upgrades typically are released annually which cost you to upgrade. On average, manufacturers release new phaco platforms every 7-10 years, meaning that you may need to re-invest in new technology on that timeframe. Ophthalmology is one of the most rapidly advanced specialties in the medical field.

2) Repairs and Preventative Maintenance

If you purchase cataract equipment for your facility, you must take into consideration the cost of maintaining your equipment. Phaco machine service contracts with manufacturers can cost an average of 5-7k per year (in a multiple year contract). And that’s just 1 phaco machine PM plan. Now let’s talk about repairs. Here’s a list of the most common phaco issues concerning repairs:

  • Phaco Foot Switch (3-5k)
  • Phaco handpiece failures (2-4k)
  • IV pole malfunctions (2-4k)
  • Fluidics hardware malfunctions (3k+)

These are average prices and the most common issues you’ll see from our experience. While still on the topic of phaco repairs, we also have to mention the loss of business and costs that correlate if your surgery day is halted or canceled by equipment failure. Not only will your facility lose revenue due to canceling surgery, but it’s a major hassle to reschedule patients, coordinate special service calls, and so on. 

3) Case Supply Waste, Lens Management, & Shipping Costs

If you manage your own case supply inventory at your facility, you’ll know that there is almost always some percentage of loss you’ll experience (from expirations to contaminations to damages). With cataract supplies, you may also know that there are specialty items necessary to have on hand just in case the surgeon might need them. Items like Capsular Tension Rings, Malyugin Rings, Iris Hooks, and Vitrectors (just to name a few) are items that need to be available if the surgeon asks for them. Some of these items are so rarely used, that they often expire on your shelf before they are used, which is a loss in your inventory. And of course, because of the nature of these supplies, they tend to be the most expensive of the cataract case supplies that you’ll order.

Managing your own lens consignments can cost you a significant amount of time and money between processing orders and reorders, shipping charges, special orders, restocking, etc. We also cannot forget to mention all the shipping costs that you will pay for all inventory items including lenses, regular supplies, overnight charges for last minute orders, and instrument repairs. Shipping costs on supplies and lenses can be significant over time.

4) Time & Space

Think for a moment of all the time that’s invested in preparing for cataract day. Ordering inventory, stocking supplies, pulling case supplies for surgery, managing multiple vendor PO’s, custom ordering specialty lenses, reordering and restocking used lenses; the list goes on…and that’s just for a normal day when nothing goes wrong! What about when a machine goes down? Patients have to be rescheduled and surgery needs to be re-coordinated with the surgeon. If transportation is involved for patients, that needs to be re-arranged. Service calls with the manufacturer need to be coordinated, arranged, invoiced, and paid. All of this is time that you (or someone on your staff) is taking out of their week to manage. When it comes to space, many surgical locations are limited in storage space. Cataract equipment and case supplies can eat up 200-400 sq ft of your precious storage space.

Surgical Direct provides a mobile cataract service that saves you time, money, space, and stress.

It really is simple. Surgical Direct will provide the latest cataract equipment to your facility when you need it (just for surgery day – even for 2 rooms days) so you don’t have to spend your capital on cataract equipment. Our equipment is manufacture maintained and routinely serviced with the same service contracts you would have if it were in your facility. We always provide a backup machine in case of equipment failure (because it does happen), and when it does, we pay for the repairs. We provide adequate handpiece volume for your surgery day caseload so surgeries can move along at a normal pace (even with today’s sterilization standards). We provide all the inventory you’ll need for surgery…including case supplies (drapes, blades, cannulas, viscoelastics, etc), instruments, lenses, and those rarely used backup supplies (excluding pre and post-op meds). And all of this comes at a per-case price that is only a percentage of your facility’s cataract reimbursement. OH, and did we mention no long-term contracts?

2019 is the year that you can upgrade your equipment without spending a dollar in capital and save money and time on inventory management.

Check out our post about 5 Headaches Eliminated with Mobile Cataract Services to see how Surgical Direct can help alleviate your cataract surgery woes.

Call us anytime with your questions! Or you can try our services first hand for FREE. Sign up for our Free Demo Day and experience Surgical Direct first hand at no charge. (see demo day page for full details).