Abstract
Introduction
The outcomes programme of our institution has been developed from a system first used at Epsom and St Helier NHS Trust 15 years ago. The system was implemented at our institution when it opened in 2004, and has been used to collect data on over 17,000 joint replacement operations so far. A bespoke database is used to collect, analyse and report outcome data.
Methods
An integrated system allows the collection of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS), patient satisfaction scores, radiological assessment, and medical or surgical complications. Functionality allows the transfer of data from existing clinical management programmes, and the generation of customised letters and questionnaires to send to patients. Analysis of data and report production is fully automated. Data is collected pre-operatively, during the inpatient stay, and post-operatively at 6 weeks, 6, 12 and 24 months. Results are disseminated to the surgeons, the senior management team and the Clinical Governance Committee.
Results
Response rates exceed 95% pre-operatively, 90% at 6 weeks and 6 months post-operatively and exceed 80% at 1 year and 2 year follow up. Data on over 17,000 joint replacement surgery have been compared to published literature. The results demonstrate high patient satisfaction and low complication rates.
Discussion
This is an established outcome programme, effectively providing feedback to all involved in the care of our patients. Surgeons are thus able to identify where to invest efforts to improve their performance and management to assess the standard of service, monitor quality and promote the institution to healthcare purchasers as a cost-effective treatment centre. Patients can review the performance and the outcome of the health service at this centre prior to deciding where they have their treatment.
