Download The Wisconsin Surgical Society The Wisconsin Surgical Society is a

THE WISCONSIN SURGICAL SOCIETY
The Wisconsin Surgical Society is a chapter of the American College of Surgeons, and its
purpose is to advance the science and practice of surgery, in its various branches. It was founded
70 years ago and serves as an organization to effectively network surgeons for the dissemination
and exchange of information with the purpose of advancing patient care. The Wisconsin Surgical
Society represents over 150 surgeons from throughout the state that strive to ensure
Wisconsinites have access to high quality surgical care.
Oppose AB 255 – Legislation to Mandate the Option to Record Surgeries
A bill, AB 255, was introduced in 2015 that would mandate medical practitioners to offer
patients the option of having all operative and dental procedures done under general anesthesia to
be audio-video recorded in color. AB 255 would require that each entrance to the room be
monitored so when staff enter or leave the operating room are recorded and date and time
stamped. Additionally it would require that all set-up and preparatory time be recorded. All
patients would be required to be offered this option, except in the emergent setting. The
recording devices would need to be installed and maintained by the facility. One copy of the
recording must be provided to the patient and one must be maintained within the medical record.
This bill was introduced by Rep. Sinicki of Milwaukee on April 26, 2015. It has been referred to
the health committee. Both the Wisconsin Hospital Association and The Wisconsin Medical
Society have stated their opposition to the bill.
This bill, as written, introduces undue and unnecessary onus upon surgeons (and other
proceduralists) and will interfere with the all-important physician-patient relationship by
introducing distrust and oversight into a highly functioning, advanced and professional
environment. However, the technology of audio visual recording can be harnessed in targeted,
productive and professional ways to improve the quality of surgical care delivered to patients.
Highly specific and professional review of technical surgical skills leads to improved individual
technical performance and is currently under scientific study to be utilized in coaching programs.
If you have any questions about AB 255, please contact the Wisconsin Surgical Society’s Policy,
Planning & Government Relations, Amy Liepert, MD, FACS at [email protected].