It may not be as complex as building a Space Shuttle, but getting an outpatient surgery center off the ground often feels as difficult. Having the right team in place can help you navigate through this sophisticated process. Team members should include an experienced operational consultant, healthcare attorney, architect, contractor and equipment planner. This checklist offers a rundown of some of the most critical areas in developing your surgery center.

writeIMG("f20_check.gif","14","12","0","l")Get real in your initial feasibility analysis. Take a hard look at risk factors that might make this a "no-go" decision. Assess the competition and whether you can negotiate sound managed care contracts. Be careful about having unrealistic expectations if you have a small volume of patients. Not every doctor will be able to bring every patient to your facility.