292 Publication of Individual Surgeon Outcomes Data: The Wishes of Orthopaedic Patients and Their Surgeons

Abstract

Abstract Background The Paterson report recommended increased release of individual surgeon data to the public. There is limited evidence in the literature about patients’ or orthopaedic surgeons’ wishes regarding release of such data to the public. Method We surveyed 80 joint replacement patients and 41 orthopaedic surgeons to determine their wishes regarding collection and release of individual surgeon data to the public. Results Patients expected more current monitoring of data than actually occurs. Of the patients, 95% wanted data to be available describing surgeon experience, length of stay and complications. Regarding currently available data, 50% of patients who were aware of it were likely to view it on the internet. Surgeons were aware of the data available, but 80% did not think it was accurate. Surgeons did not think this data improved standards, that it negatively affected innovation (61%) and training (76%) and led to risk averse behaviour (61%). Surgeons wanted a minimal data set accurately presented and risk adjusted. Conclusions We recommend an agreed minimum dataset of good quality data is collected and discussed in clinical governance sessions. It can then be released to the public with explanatory notes.