A study led by UCRH researchers has shown promising results in reducing wait times for neurosurgery patients suffering from spinal pain.
The outcomes from the study have been published in the journal Public Health after the researchers set out to assess the effectiveness of using multiple approaches to reduce the number of patients overdue to be seen for a neurosurgical (spinal pain) outpatient service.
The study was based at John Hunter Hospital and compared three phases: before the strategies were implemented, during the implementation, and after the implementation. The strategies used varied, ranging from collaborative parallel physiotherapy clinic to offering an alternative pathway for patients not requiring ongoing neurosurgical care.
The findings revealed a significant decrease in the number of patients overdue for appointments, with more patients are getting the timely care they need.
The authors note that while more investigations are needed, the strategies tested could serve as a model for other hospitals facing similar challenges with long wait times in outpatient services.
