title: The surgeon as gatekeeper.
abstract: The author pays tribute to three deceased members of the North Pacific Surgical Association who directed his own career. The gatekeeper function of surgical specialists is discussed, and surgeons are urged to become more active in this role. Increased involvement in managed care planning and cost control, particularly in smaller communities, is encouraged.
authors: Department of Surgery, St. Joseph Hospital, Tacoma, WA.
authors: C H
authors: CH
authors: Bahn
mesh_terms: D013502:General Surgery / Q000266:history*; D049673:History, 20th Century; D008329:Managed Care Programs / Q000266:history*; D012017:Referral and Consultation / Q000266:history*; D012955:Societies, Medical / Q000266:history; D014861:Washington