What is SOS?
SOS is a web-based collection of patient-reported, outcome data that is collected pre operatively through two years post operatively. It gives clinicians the ability to track their patient’s outcome data and compare it to their site and global average of patients enrolled in SOS. Clinicians can also use SOS to compare different surgical devices and techniques in seconds, as well as to educate patients on average recovery times and the average length and intensity of pain following surgery.How will SOS benefit clinicians?
SOS allows clinicians to provide better patient care with increased follow-up during post-op rehab, which is a clinician’s competitive advantage to attract and keep patients. It complies with evidence-based medicine requirements by quantifying patient outcome performance that can be provided to insurance companies for reimbursement as well as hospital administration for product usage (Richner, 2011; Miller, 2010). It prepares graphical representations of global performance of different techniques and devices in outcome, cost and surgery time which allows clinicians to assess best techniques. All of this is possible at a very low cost that even private practitioners can manage.Who owns the data?
Clinicians own their patient data and this can be used at any time for any research purpose. Arthrex owns the global average.Can clinicians view other clinicians’ patient data?
Not unless two or more clinicians wish to enter into a data-sharing agreement.Can patients see their clinician’s data?
Patients cannot see their own outcomes or any other data collected unless the clinician chooses to share that information. Patients do not have access to anything other than their own surveys.Can clinicians cancel at any time?
Yes, even after the 90-day grace period.References:
Miller, L. (2 December 2010). The year ahead: 9 biggest issues for orthopedic surgeons in 2011. ASC Review. Retrieved from http://www.beckersasc.comRichner, R. (2011). Comparative Effectiveness – Implications for MedTech Companies (PowerPoint Slides). Retrieved from http://www.massmedic.com/docs/rrnwo311.pdf