title: Rapid recovery programs in arthroplasty: the money side.
abstract: The implementation of rapid recovery programs is the result of continuing efforts to achieve a shorter convalescing and faster "return-to-life" leading to higher quality and increased cost-effectiveness. The current traditional payment system stifles efficiency and the implementation of these programs. These payment systems incentivize "slowness" and longer lengths-of-stay. The reduction in LOS seen in the last 10years has been partly responsible for the reimbursement reduction surgeons have seen in the last decade. New payment systems are being developed; if properly implemented, they have the ability to even the playing field for the surgeons. The devil however is in the details; these innovative models also have the potential to give the surgeons more responsibility and headaches with a very small increase in compensation.
authors: The Center for Advanced Orthopedics at Larkin Hospital, South Miami, Florida.
authors: Carlos J
authors: CJ
authors: Lavernia
authors: The Center for Advanced Orthopedics at Larkin Hospital, South Miami, Florida; Arthritis Surgery Research Foundation, South Miami, Florida.
authors: Jesus M
authors: JM
authors: Villa
mesh_terms: D001168:Arthritis / Q000191:economics / Q000601:surgery*; D019644:Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip / Q000191:economics*; D019645:Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee / Q000191:economics*; D002985:Clinical Protocols / Q000592:standards; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D006801:Humans; D019990:Perioperative Care / Q000191:economics* / Q000592:standards; D015895:Relative Value Scales
keywords: economics; osteoarthritis; rapid recovery program; total hip arthroplasty; total knee arthroplasty