A partnership solution for spinal patients
With a backlog of NHS patients waiting for assessment by a
Spinal Consultant in Colchester, North East Essex Primary Care
Trust needed an innovative solution within the local community.
Situated in the heart of Colchester and with a strong local
reputation, The Oaks Hospital, part of Ramsay Health Care, was a
promising partner. In 2007 the PCT approached The Oaks’
Physiotherapy Department to develop a triage proposal on a pilot
basis.
The proposal was
accepted and The Oaks began a contract to triage 20 new patients
per week. All NHS patients with spinal problems are referred to the
local Clinical Assessment Service (CAS), who then send
documentation to The Oaks. Patients are fully assessed by The Oaks
Extended Scope Spinal Physiotherapist, who diagnoses the problem
and decides whether the patient should be referred to the Spinal
Consultant, the Pain Consultant, for an MRI scan, or for
Physiotherapy. The Physiotherapy is undertaken by The Oaks’
Physiotherapists. Any complex needs are discussed at a regular
multi-disciplinary meeting which consists of the Spinal Surgeon,
Radiologist, Pain Consultant, and Extended Scope
Physiotherapist.
Jo Hutchinson, The Oaks’ Physiotherapy Manager, said: “The
contract has ensured a dramatic drop in the number of patients
being sent as a routine referral to the Spinal Consultant. Patients
have said how impressed they are with the service and are receiving
good treatment in a timely fashion. We have triaged over 750
patients so far and the results are very encouraging.”
Matt Bushell, The PCT’s Director of Strategic Development and
Commissioning, said: “The PCT is delighted with the results, both
for the patients and for the waiting list of the Spinal Consultant.
We are very pleased to be able to deliver this valuable and
innovative service as a true partner of the local NHS.”
The PCT has now developed its preferred Spinal Pathway and in
the process of procuring services.