Presidential address

Abstract

Gynecologic endoscopic surgeons have achieved remarkable results in the past decade. We have frequently improved results compared with traditional open techniques. This has resulted in billions of dollars saved for the work force by converting inpatient to outpatient procedures and as a result decreasing the amount of time patients must be out of work. The growth of several industries including ambulatory surgicenters, managed care, and medical device manufacturers has been encouraged. Incomes for endoscopic surgeons have, however, decreased. Possible solutions include decreasing overhead, increasing income by participating in facility fees and performing a greater percentage of office procedures, and educating ourselves in billing processes and attempting to improve reimbursements for gender-specific procedures.

Endoscopic surgery and diagnosis in infertility management and assisted reproductive techniques

“…If results are comparable and even improved in some indications, laparoscopy has created savings of billions of dollars for the economy by converting inpatient procedures to outpatient ones, and as a result decreasing the amount of time that patients need to be absent from work. 14 In the ®eld of infertility, there is a general consensus in favour of some indications for the laparoscopic approach; others are considered more experimental or at least advanced.…”