Surgeons share what they’ve learned and how OBS can change your practice. PUBLISHED IN CATARACT &...
For Dr. Gary Barth, your sight is his vision. Beyond establishing several renowned practices, including the eponymous Healdsburg-based practice in 2020, he’s brought world-class eye examinations, surgical services, and LASIK vision improvement to countless patients. As a testament to his work, Dr. Barth’s accolades include “Best Ophthalmologist” recognition, congressional citations, and numerous service awards.
Office-Based Surgery (OBS) Gives Me Complete Control of My OR and My Schedule
We opened our state-of-the-art office-based surgical suite here at Barth Vision in July of 2022, and we’ve never looked back. Our 1,400 square foot surgical suite and Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) have transformed the way we perform surgery. I have full control of the surgical process end to end, as well as unlimited access to the suite seven days a week. I work with my schedule instead of the ASCs.
“I’ve been a surgeon in the North Bay for over 40 years and office-based surgery is one of the most revolutionary changes I’ve experienced.”
Here’s Why Barth Vision Made the Move to Office-Based Surgery:
There were several reasons I made the move to OBS, namely the lack of surgical time in our local ASC. I was limited to one afternoon a week and that didn’t work for me or my patients. They were tired of waiting and waiting for surgery in the ASC, and I was tired of the inconvenience and stress. I knew there had to be a better way, and I found it with OBS. Once we launched, everything changed. I have full autonomy without ASC scheduling or paperwork holding me back. And I’m no longer limited to one day a week. It’s made a world of difference in my practice, and my patients give it the heads up too.
“OBS gives me tremendous flexibility. I can operate any day of the week – even several days a week if I like.”
I Couldn’t Be Happier
We’re truly redefining cataract surgery at Barth Vision with a groundbreaking duo – our cutting-edge surgical suite and Light Adjustable Lens.TM We’re the only practice in Sonoma County with both. I work with a surgical team I know and trust. I choose my own equipment, and I’m not held back by the constraints of a hospital or ASC. Instead, my OR is available 24/7, 365 days a year, and it’s right here in my office. My premium volume has increased with improved financial offerings for Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) patients.
Furthermore, we perform surgery with oral sedation rather than IV sedation. There’s simply no need for it with OBS. In fact, since the suite launched two years back, I haven’t used IV sedation a single time. That’s not only spared us the expense of an anesthesiologist or CRNA, it’s eliminated the stress of finding one with the shortages we’re experiencing.
“The combination of OBS and Light Adjustable Lens TM has transformed my practice in so many positive ways.”
My Patients Couldn’t Be Happier
They experience less stress and anxiety when their surgery is performed in a place that’s familiar to them by a team they know and trust. There are no crowded waiting rooms, no scheduling conflicts, and no surprises when it comes to cost. I can customize each patient’s experience while adjusting prices to fit their individual needs. And since there’s no need for IV sedation, there’s no reason to fast. Recovery is quicker, and surgery time is considerably less than that of an ASC. From start to finish, the process is patient-centered. And that’s what a practice should be.
“From initial consultation through post-surgical care, everything’s in one place. And that’s made my patients much more comfortable.”
My Team Couldn’t Be Happier
My team is completely invested in the surgical process now. They’re empowered to make critical decisions, explore more creative options, and really get to know each patient. They often submit ideas that streamline the surgical experience and improve efficiencies. In short, we’re a more cohesive team. I know them and they know me. That’s rarely true at the ASC.
“My team can’t wait for the days they get to assist in our in-house surgical suite.”
We’re So Happy We Chose iOR
In just six short weeks, iOR Partners facilitated a seamless transition to a free-standing in-office surgical suite. They handled everything, and I mean everything. First off, they’re a physician-led team so they understand the work we do. They planned the space, ordered the equipment, trained my staff, and accreditation was a snap. We worked as a team throughout the process, and that made such a difference.
What’s more, iOR saved us so much money on equipment and supplies. They helped us with just in time inventory and we were able to recycle our supplies each week.
“iOR has been here every step of the way, from buildout to ongoing day-to-day support. It would have been an impossible task without them.”
In summary, OBS has given my team and I our own OR, and that’s given us the flexibility and control we’ve always wanted. My patients are happier and I’m certainly happier. I can now offer comprehensive, customized vision care without the constraints of an ASC, and that’s eliminated so much stress in my life. OBS is a safe, comfortable, and convenient choice for my patients, and it’s truly changed the scope of my practice for the best.
Find Out More:
With 100+ iOR suites open or in development, it’s never been easier to make the move to OBS. iOR invites you to fill out a feasibility analysis to see how your practice can benefit. Simply visit our website at iORpartners.com to find out more.
Barth Vision & Optical
Santa Rosa, California
