Hunter New England Local Health District
John Hunter Hospital aimed to improve timely access for patients referred
for specialist outpatient services. They implemented a collaborative
whole-of-service approach designed to engage and enable staff and stakeholders
to improve access to care.
A suite of data-informed and clinically-led strategies were introduced
within and across specialist outpatient services. Executive leadership support
and collaboration with partners were integral to the success of this
program.
Results showed:
- Over the past four years, the number of patients waiting more than one year
without a scheduled appointment fell by 68% (5711 patients)
- The longest wait time for a patient without an appointment has more than
halved.