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.
['Hosking|Jonathan|J|', 'Gibson|Colin|C|']
D006801:Humans D012017:Referral and Consultation D012189:Retrospective Studies D012656:Self-Help Devices D013997:Time Factors D016896:Treatment Outcome D014850:Waiting Lists D014852:Wales D014910:Wheelchairs
single point of access referral waiting times Seating service design