Integrated Health Management Approaches in Surgical Services: Efficiency and Patient Outcomes

Abstract

Introduction:

Patient outcomes are paramount in this context, demanding a comprehensive understanding of the impact of integrated health management on both the efficiency and satisfaction of individuals undergoing surgical interventions. This systematic review aims to synthesize and augment these statistics, providing a nuanced analysis of the quantifiable benefits observed in surgical services through integrated health management.

Methods:

For integrated health management approaches in surgical services up to July 2023, a meticulous literature search encompassing Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms and relevant keywords was executed across major medical databases. The search, conducted without limitations on publication date, covered PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase, and CINAHL, with adapted syntax and strategies for each database. Stringent eligibility criteria focused on interventional studies, requiring quantitative data on efficiency gains, resource utilization, or patient outcomes, and only considering peer-reviewed publications. The comprehensive search strategy was meticulously applied, and the subsequent study selection process, involving a two-step screening procedure, ensured the inclusion of high-quality interventional studies, forming a robust foundation for subsequent synthesis and analysis.

Results:

Nine interventional studies were included, offering valuable insights into the impact of integrated health management approaches in surgical services. Sample sizes varied across studies, ranging from 166 to 3,540 participants, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of the effectiveness of these strategies across different scales of surgical care. The main interventions identified encompassed a spectrum of approaches, including the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs), interdisciplinary care teams, and patient engagement strategies, contributing to improved coordination and empowerment of individuals in their care journey. Across the selected studies, a statistically significant average efficiency gain of 20% in surgical processes was observed, indicating substantial improvements in resource utilization and care delivery. Patient-reported outcomes were a focal point, with several studies showcasing a 15% enhancement in patient satisfaction levels, underscoring the positive impact of integrated health management on the overall surgical experience.

Conclusions:

This systematic review underscores the effectiveness of integrated health management in surgical services, drawing from nine interventional studies to reveal a significant average efficiency gain of 20% in surgical processes and a substantial 15% improvement in patient-reported outcomes, emphasizing the need for continued research to address limitations and enhance our understanding of its sustained impact across diverse healthcare settings.