Three specialist sisters staff the service and deal with a huge range of fractures on a daily basis, seeing between 120 and 140 patients per week. Initially clinics were led by doctors, however as the project has developed they are now led by nurses with a doctor available at the end of the telephone if needed.
Sue Barden-Marshall, specialist sister, said: “By holding nurse led clinics we are able to see more patients - this means that we directly affect waiting times and make them shorter."
“Initial feedback from patients is very positive, enhancing the patients experience - this will be formally evaluated at a later date.”
Staff developed a system in April 2009 which means that patients referred to the clinic by their GP can contact the clinic direct and make a convenient appointment. Staff also refer patients to other hospital departments as appropriate as well as diagnosing conditions and developing treatment plans.
