[Conversion to outpatient treatment beyond the hybrid DRG-A view abroad]

Outpatient visceral surgery is still in its infancy in Germany. While hernia repair that can be performed on an outpatient basis is still being discussed in this country, larger visceral surgery procedures such as thyroidectomy, fundoplication, bariatric procedures and colorectal resection are increasingly being performed abroad on an outpatient basis or in a short inpatient setting (< 24 h). The USA is the pioneer of outpatient care. Due to the private sector character of the American health insurance system, structures were created that ensure seamless care for patients. Overall, a look abroad shows that outpatient surgical procedures are a promising development that can also be further promoted in Germany through appropriate measures and strategies.