Conclusion
This study reveals important data relating to the utilization and trends
over time of preoperative anesthesia consultations within a large
comprehensive population. Opportunities for discussion were found,
including consultations provided for patients who did not proceed to
surgery, and those healthier patients undergoing minimally to moderately
invasive surgeries. These findings are consistent with the Choosing
Wisely Canada section for anesthesia which suggests minimizing
preoperative testing for asymptomatic patients (synonymous with ASA
class I and II patients) undergoing minimally invasive surgeries. Future
studies are needed to evaluate the safety of allocating preoperative
anesthesiology consultations in particular groups, and the potential
healthcare system efficiencies and economic benefits of these
reductions.