AB224. 105. An alternative approach to managing outpatient waiting lists in the elective orthopaedic outpatient setting

Background: With waiting lists in a constant state of emergency and a healthcare budget with no room for additional resources, a solution to solve this problem must be cost neutral and engineered to utilize existing resources. The aim of the current study was to evaluate an alternative approach to managing outpatient waiting lists in the elective orthopaedic setting through the development of the Interface Clinic.

Methods: The Interface clinic was staffed by 2 Extended Scope Physiotherapists who had completed injection courses and an Orthopaedic registrar. Consultant supervision was available. New referrals from all consultants were assessed.

Results: In the 6-month pilot, the outpatient waiting list was reduced by 21% overall, with a mean reduction in waiting times of 5.5 months (16 months reduced to 11.5). Thirty-one percent of patients were discharged following initial consultation, 28% of patients received injection therapy, 33% required radiological assessment, 5% were listed for surgery and 10% were referred to an orthopaedic consultant for consultation. There was a 98% patient satisfaction rate with the service. The cost per patient attending the interface clinic is €18.75 versus €129 for the traditional orthopaedic clinic

Conclusions: The interface clinic is a cost efficient and effective method of managing elective orthopaedic waiting lists.

Keywords: Interface; clinic; orthopaedic; waiting list