Impact of the single point of access referral system to reduce waiting times and improve clinical outcomes in an assistive technology service.
The introduction of a single point referral system that prioritises clients depending on case complexity and overcomes the need for re-admittance to a waiting list via a review system has been shown to significantly reduce maximum waiting times for a Posture and Mobility (Special Seating) Service from 102.0 ± 24.33 weeks to 19.2 ± 8.57 weeks (p = 0.015). Using this service model linear regression revealed a statistically significant improvement in the performance outcome of prescribed seating solutions with shorter Episode of Care completion times (p = 0.023). In addition, the number of Episodes of Care completed per annum was significantly related to the Episode of Care completion time (p = 0.019). In conclusion, it is recommended that it may be advantageous to apply this service model to other assistive technology services in order to reduce waiting times and to improve clinical outcomes.
a Rehabilitation Engineering Unit, Posture and Mobility Centre, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board , Pontypridd , Wales , UK.
Jonathan
J
Hosking
a Rehabilitation Engineering Unit, Posture and Mobility Centre, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board , Pontypridd , Wales , UK.
Colin
C
Gibson
D006801:Humans; D012017:Referral and Consultation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012656:Self-Help Devices / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014850:Waiting Lists; D014852:Wales; D014910:Wheelchairs / Q000706:statistics & numerical data* / Q000600:supply & distribution*
Seating; referral; service design; single point of access; waiting times