Using an under-utilised rural hospital to reduce surgical waiting lists

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate patient outcomes from a 12-month pilot program establishing specialist surgical services in a small rural (Modified Monash Model, MM4) hospital on the south coast of NSW. Methods Suitable patients for ambulatory surgery were selected based on strict anaesthetic, surgical and social criteria. Skills shortfalls among nursing staff, usually with emergency or inpatient experience, were addressed by appropriate re-training and in-service training in scrub, scout and anaesthetic duties. An anonymous post-operative patient survey was administered during the pilot program, which assessed patient experiences and outcomes. Of 162 patients undergoing surgery during the pilot, 50 consecutive participants completed the survey. Results Of the 161 procedures during the pilot program, 100 were performed under sedation and locoregional anaesthesia and 62 under general anaesthesia. Half (n  = 86, 53.4%) were complex excisions of malignant skin lesions, and of these 63% also required either a skin graft or local flap repair. Survey respondents reported adequate information and pain relief upon discharge (n  = 45, 96%) and 100% were satisfied with the care received. No respondents needed to see a doctor following discharge. There were no mortality events or major issues of morbidity during the study period or subsequently, no further overnight admissions or return to theatre and no re-presentations within 48 h of operating. Two superficial surgical site infections were reported. Conclusions There is merit in drawing on underutilised resources in small rural hospitals in support of initiatives to reduce surgical waitlists. Appropriate outpatient surgeries can be safely performed with high levels of patient satisfaction.