Outpatient Surgery Centers

Outpatient surgery is a type of surgery that doesn’t require an overnight hospital stay. Typically, these procedures only take a few hours, and patients go home on the same day they are performed.

Outpatient surgeries take place in outpatient (ambulatory) surgery centers —locations that are solely dedicated to performing a specific set of procedures. Your care team will determine the right setting for your surgery based on your needs, your health, the complexity of the procedure and other factors.

Some of the benefits of outpatient surgery include:

• Less cost. Outpatient surgery centers typically have lower operational costs, often resulting in less out-of-pocket expense for patients.
• Safe, expert care. Your care team will deliver the same high-quality standard of care you would expect to receive in a hospital environment.
• Convenience. Our outpatient surgery centers are easy to access, reducing the need for trips to larger medical facilities like hospitals.
• Faster recovery, less stress. Outpatient surgeries tend to be less invasive and are often associated with shorter recovery times and less post-operative pain, minimizing disruption to your life.
• More predictability. Since outpatient surgery centers only perform planned procedures, you’re less likely to experience delays or scheduling issues.

MultiCare’s outpatient surgery centers are designed with your comfort and safety in mind. Our surgical suites use state-of-the technology — and we strive to create a relaxed, supportive atmosphere so your surgical experience is as stress-free as possible.

Upon arrival on the day of your surgery, our staff will help you check in, fill out any necessary paperwork, and escort you to the preoperative area. Here you’ll change into a hospital gown. Your surgical team will then perform any necessary pre-surgical procedures and safety checks and answer any questions you have.

Please note children under the age of 18 who are having surgery must have a parent or guardian remain in the surgery center during the entire time they are in our facility.

After surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery room, where a nurse will monitor you while your anesthesia or sedation wears off. When you’re ready to go home, your care team will provide instructions for post-surgery care. Most patients are discharged home between one and four hours after their outpatient procedure.

After your surgery, you’ll need to have a responsible adult accompany you home and remain available for 24 hours. Visit our preparing for surgery, day of surgery and recovering from surgery pages to learn more about the surgical experience.