Modified trauma assessment clinic: A rapid, scalable model

Abstract

IntroductionTrauma Assessment Clinic (TAC) has become a very useful tool in managing busy trauma clinics and reducing attendances. There is good evidence of safety and efficacy. Extension of pre-existing TAC during the COVID pandemic has proven successful. Rapid start-up models for establishing TACs are not well described in the literature. This study aimed to prove that a modified TAC has similar efficacy and can be initiated in rapid start-up manner with minimal cost. MethodsA new electronic pathway of referral with a template was created between the Emergency Department (ED) and the Orthopaedic department. ResultsFollowing introduction of our modified TAC 32% of patients referred to the TAC did not require in-person review thereby avoiding any additional hospital visit. Average time to first in-person review appointment was 15 days. Combining these, the projected reduction in all fracture clinic attendance was 48%. ConclusionThis paper describes the process of how a major teaching and tertiary referral orthopaedic unit developed an accelerated establishment process for a Trauma Assessment Clinic as an alternative to the traditional “Glasgow model”. This can be instituted quickly, safely, and is scalable for use in a large hospital. The template provided can be used as a guide or “blueprint” should other orthopaedic departments require a rapid start-up of a Trauma Assessment Clinic.