Cost-efficient radical prostatectomy.

Radical retropubic prostatectomy is an easily standardized procedure with reproducible outcomes. Care has been standardized at our institution through the use of a collaborative care approach that defines the optimal care and outcomes for the ideal patient on a daily basis. This approach is based on an objective evaluation of the available medical literature. With this program, hospital charges have been reduced by 41% and hospital stay has been reduced to 2.9 days. Surgical outcomes have been excellent with low morbidity rates and excellent patient acceptance. Collaborative care programs for health care provide a comprehensive approach that allows for the delivery of cost-efficient care, which is supportive of the patient and allows continual refinement in care based on objective analysis of outcomes.