Virtual triage clinic reduces waiting times for gastroenterology patients in Oxfordshire
Remote assessment model targets an area with historically long waits
A virtual triage clinic introduced by Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is cutting waiting times for gastroenterology patients.
This branch of medicine refers to people with conditions related to their digestive system i.e. the oesophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreas.
In 2023, waiting times for gastroenterology patients could extend up to 16 months, often with multiple referral processes delaying diagnosis and treatment.
The Trust's virtual triage aims to address these challenges by remotely reviewing patient referrals.
Clinicians can now provide advice and direct patients to the appropriate care pathway without a preliminary face-to-face appointment.
The model allows healthcare professionals to manage approximately 24 patients per session, compared to 8-12 in traditional outpatient clinics.
While around 40% of patients still require in-person appointments, others receive management advice, are redirected to suitable specialties, or are referred directly for diagnostic tests.
Since its launch, the initiative has reduced waiting times to under 40 weeks and assisted over 2,500 patients who would otherwise face extensive delays.
Vincent Cheung, a Consultant Gastroenterologist at OUH, said: "Patient feedback has been really positive. Very few patients request a face-to-face appointment once they understand the reasoning behind the approach and how it can speed up their care.
"Faster diagnosis and clearer communication have reduced anxiety and helped ensure timely treatment, particularly for conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and coeliac disease, as well as in the removal of large polyps."
Felicity Taylor-Drewe, Chief Operating Officer at OUH, said: "This is a fantastic example of how innovation and collaboration across our teams can continue our aim of providing excellent patient care.
"Reducing waiting lists is one of our very highest priorities, so I am incredibly grateful to all involved for their efforts to achieve this.
"We know there is always more to do, and will continue to explore innovations and different ways of working to meet our goals."
The virtual triage clinic will now be expanded to additional services in the coming summer months.