Redesigning a Department of Surgery during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Brethauer, Stacy A.; Poulose, Benjamin K.; Needleman, Bradley J.; Sims, Carrie; Arnold, Mark; Washburn, Kenneth; Tsung, Allan; Mokadam, Nahush; Sarac, Timur; Merritt, Robert; Pawlik, Timothy M.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 has created an urgent need for reorganization and surge planning among departments of surgery across the USA. METHODS: Review of the COVID-19 planning process and work products in preparation for a patient surge. Organizational and process changes, workflow redesign, and communication plans are presented. RESULTS: The planning process included widespread collaboration among leadership from many disciplines. The department of surgery played a leading role in establishing clinical protocols, guidelines, and policies in preparation for a surge of COVID-19 patients. A multidisciplinary approach with input from clinical and nonclinical stakeholders is critical to successful crisis planning. A clear communication plan should be implemented early and input from trainees, staff, and faculty should be solicited. CONCLUSION: Major departmental and health system reorganization is required to adapt academic surgical practices to a widespread crisis. Surgical leadership, innovation, and flexibility are critical to successful planning and implementation.