April 18, 2014

The Bethesda North Ambulatory Surgery Center (NASC) has been slowly merging cases and staff to other departments in an effort to clear the space for renovation.

While decisions about renovation plans are still pending, the merging of NASC cases to other areas of Bethesda remains on track for completion by June 2.

A multi-disciplinary team of surgeons, anesthesiologists, operating room (OR) staff and other support staff has been coordinating logistical details as seamlessly as possible. Orthopedic and pain cases have already been redirected to the Bethesda Surgery Center. General surgery cases, gynecology cases and other minor outpatient cases are in the process of being merged into the main OR at Bethesda North.

"This change will increase utilization of all the OR rooms on the main campus, but every effort is being made to continue the fast-track care of outpatient cases with process efficiencies similar to those in place at NASC," said Barb Boyne, executive director of operations at Bethesda North.

Collaboration of physicians and staff has been a critical component of the success of the transition thus far. It is important to note that the relocation of cases has not resulted in any job loss for staff.

"We are very appreciative of all the physicians and staff who have worked together to maintain the highest quality standards of care with the least possible interruption to our patients," said John R. Robinson MD, senior vice president of Hospital Operations. "The smooth transition period we've experienced is because so many individuals contributed to our common goal."