Patient and procedure selection for an office-based anesthetic

A key element in the delivery of a safe office-based anesthetic is the proper selection of suitable patients and procedures. Currently, there is a paucity of state or local regulations regarding this issue. However, a few medical societies have been active in developing recommendations and practice advisories. Additionally, our experience with free-standing ambulatory surgery centers should help guide in formulating policies that will insure that patient safety is not sacrificed in this exciting new healthcare venue.