More Than a Perioperative Surgical Home: An Opportunity for Anesthesiologists to Advance Public Health

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Anesthesiology
• Medical Specialties

Background:

• Anesthesiology has historical ties to public health, exemplified by John Snow's cholera research.
• Anesthesiology leaders contributed significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, developing patient safety recommendations.
• Common public health issues like smoking, opioid use disorder, and obstructive sleep apnea frequently intersect with surgical care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for an expanded role of anesthesiologists in public health initiatives.
• To highlight the unique position of anesthesiologists to influence patient health outcomes.
• To propose moving beyond the perioperative surgical home model to integrate public health promotion.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical and contemporary intersections between anesthesiology and public health.
• Analysis of anesthesiologists' current roles in perioperative care and pain management.
• Argument for integrating public health interventions into the perioperative period.

Main Results:

• Anesthesiologists are uniquely positioned to address prevalent public health issues.
• The specialty's scope encompasses pre- and postoperative care, offering opportunities for intervention.
• Current practices can be extended to promote significant behavioral changes and improve overall health.

Conclusions:

• Anesthesiologists should embrace a broader public health role.
• Integrating public health initiatives into perioperative care can enhance patient outcomes.
• This evolution promises to improve long-term patient health and well-being.