I returned this weekend from the Shouldice Hospital in Toronto. It is unique. Since the mid-40s, it has performed only hernia operations. It is one of the best facilities of its kind in the world.
Because it only has to concentrate on one type of operation, it is very efficient. Operations are performed there like clockwork. You might think that this assembly-line type of approach would be dehumanizing, but it has an opposite effect.
Since they only do one type of operation, they are very efficient. The patients are happy and confident that the job is going to be done well. The success rate is over 99%.
Since all of the patients are undergoing the same treatment, there is a camaraderie that develops. They encourage each other.
It is almost a country-club type atmosphere. Meals are served in a common dining room. Waitresses bring you your food. My first meal there was tortellini. How many hospitals serve tortellini? I even saw one gentleman ask for and receive seconds.
The bedrooms are carpeted, which decreases the noise. They have a library, lots of newspapers and a piano and guitar for your enjoyment. Oh, and I forgot the pool table and shuffleboard table.
Things just go along so well that it leaves a positive effect on everyone.
Considering the other types of operations that are so common today, it makes me wonder why there aren't similar specialized hospitals for thinks like hip and knee replacements, heart transplants and other ailments. Putting all of your eggs in one basket seems to make a lot of sense.
It reminds me when I first loaded a film at a television station. It took me 5 minutes and I still did it incorrectly. In six months I was able to do it in 6 seconds. What I am trying to point out is that doing the same thing over and over can create such an efficiency that saves money. As long as the person enjoys doing the action, it only benefits everyone. And, as I said, having like-minded people together in one spot builds a team spirit that is good for everyone.
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