Correlation between surgical booking by a PA and surgical procedure performed

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated the concordance between clinical evaluation and diagnosis by a physician associate/assistant (PA) and the preoperative and intraoperative evaluations by a pediatric urologic surgeon. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed for patients independently evaluated and scheduled for surgery by a single PA between 2017 and 2020. Concordance was measured by comparing the PA's office note with the surgeon's preoperative note and operative report. Results: Of the 242 patients scheduled for surgery, 11 underwent an operative report procedure change and 11 others underwent a preoperative note procedure change. Concordance increased from 89.09% in 2017 to 92.31% in 2020 but was not statistically significant (P = .230). Urologic conditions evaluated demonstrated an increase in the variety and complexity of conditions. Conclusions: A supervisory/collaborative model involving a well-trained PA yields excellent outcomes in terms of concordance with surgical scheduling and procedure performed.