Reference: 2010-010 - Cost minimisation analysis of visiting ENT surgical service

Researchers: Dr Adam Mossenson, Dr Sharon Nowrojee (KPHU); Dr James Allen (Derby Hospital); Dr Sarah Larkins (JCU)

Funding: Internal

Project summary: Ear Nose and Throat conditions represent a significant health concern for Australia’s Indigenous population, especially in rural and remote areas. Service provision of ENT specialists in the Kimberley region is a limited and every effort must be made to maximise on their time when available. Surgical visits to the Kimberley are limited and in the past have not been optimally taken advantage of due to a range of factors such as the process of notification of patients, non-attendance on surgical days and inability to gain consent. One month to the visiting ENT surgical week of August 2-6th a co-ordinated effort, supported financially from WACHS, was initiated between the Kimberley Population Health Unit, Derby Hospital, Derby Aboriginal Health Service, Community Health in Derby and remote area nurses to break down some of the barriers preventing efficient and maximal utilisation of ENT and anaesthetic services whilst in town. An economic analysis of this initiative will be made in this audit.

Progress: Completed in 2010