Reducing geriatric outpatient waiting times: Impact of an advanced health practitioner

Abstract

ObjectiveTo investigate the impact on patient waiting times of a role substitution model introducing an advanced allied health practitioner as the first point of contact within a geriatric outpatient context. MethodsA pre- to postintervention design was used to determine impact over a five-year period (2008-2012). All patients referred to the geriatric specialist outpatient department were included (n = 1514). Data relating to waiting times were analysed using one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests to determine effects on patient waiting times. ResultsWaiting times were reduced from an average of 82to as low as 35days, in a context of increasing referral rates. Medical specialist capacity was increased through improvements to available outpatient times and reduced appointment lengths. Patients seen within their designated triage category timeframe increased from 47 to 86%. ConclusionHealth professional substitution in geriatrics can be an effective intervention for reducing patient waiting times and improving access to care. Policy Impact: Allied health practitioner role substitution models can improve patient flow, access to care and clinician time utilisation, in contexts such as geriatric outpatient services. Practice Impact: Role substitution using allied health practitioners can reduce patient waiting times for care. In a geriatric outpatient setting the waiting time was reduced from an average of 82 to as low as 35 days. The percentage of patients seen within their designated triage category increased from 47 to 86%.Saxon, Robyn L. Gray, Marion A. Oprescu, Florin I.1741-6612 <br />