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Published on: January 6, 2023
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Using an under-utilised rural hospital to reduce surgical waiting lists
Tracey Edwards1, Andrea Boerkamp2, Kimberley J Davis3
1Graduate School of Medicine, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Keiraville, NSW 2522, Australia.
Summary
A pilot program successfully provided specialist surgical services in a rural hospital, demonstrating safe and effective ambulatory surgery. Patients reported high satisfaction and excellent outcomes, with no major complications, supporting rural healthcare initiatives.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Services
- Rural Health
- Patient Outcomes
Background:
- Small rural hospitals often have underutilized resources.
- Access to specialist surgical services can be limited in rural areas.
- Reducing surgical waitlists is a key healthcare objective.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate patient outcomes of a 12-month pilot program establishing specialist surgical services in a rural hospital (Modified Monash Model, MM4).
- To assess the feasibility and patient satisfaction of ambulatory surgery in a rural setting.
Main Methods:
- Patients meeting strict criteria underwent ambulatory surgery.
- Nursing staff received targeted retraining for surgical duties.
- Post-operative patient experiences and outcomes were assessed via anonymous surveys.
Main Results:
- 161 procedures were performed, including complex malignant skin lesion excisions and repairs.
- 100 procedures used sedation/locoregional anesthesia, 62 used general anesthesia.
- 96% reported adequate discharge information and pain relief, 100% were satisfied.
- No mortality, major morbidity, overnight admissions, or returns to theatre occurred.
- Two superficial surgical site infections were reported.
Conclusions:
- Specialist surgical services can be safely and effectively implemented in rural hospitals.
- Ambulatory surgery in rural settings leads to high patient satisfaction and positive outcomes.
- Leveraging rural hospital resources can help reduce surgical waitlists.
