Focused Accelerated Surgical Treatment for Total Knee Replacement (FAST -TKR)
Care Process & Redesign
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
National University Health System
3 December 2025
To implement a novel method of discharge planning before admission, standardize care sets and medications, and enhance. The FAST-TKR approach showcases a model that could be replicated in other surgical fields or institutions to optimize care processes.
Year Submitted: 2025
Published Date: 03 December 2025
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Value Based Care, Discharge Planning, Patient Satisfaction
About this Content
Aims
To implement a novel method of discharge planning before admission, standardize care sets and medications, and enhance patient education and empowerment to improve patient outcomes and institutional savings.
Background
Traditional post-surgery hospital stays pose challenges such as increased risk of complications, poorer outcomes, higher costs, and limited bed availability. Previous attempts at early discharge failed due to inadequate community support.
Methods
The FAST-TKR approach involves discharge planning before admission, standardizing care sets and medications, and enhancing patient education. It also includes collaboration with NUHS@Home and St. Lukes Community Hospital for next-day transfer protocols.
Results
Average hospital stay reduced from 3.39 to 2.32 days. Discharge by POD 1 and POD 3 increased from 11% and 64% to 42% and 83%. Patient satisfaction remained high with improved scores. Annual cost savings amounted to $404,366.85.
Conclusion
The FAST-TKR approach showcases a model that could be replicated in other surgical fields or institutions to optimize care processes.
Lessons Learnt
Operational efficiencies can align with improved patient outcomes. Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial. Challenges include re-training staff and improving communication across agencies.
Keywords
Quality Improvements, Workflow Redesign, Productivity, Cost Saving, Time Saving, Value Based Care
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National University Health System |
Organization(s) Involved | National University Hospital, St. Lukes Community Hospital |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Medical |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Orthopaedics |
Project Lead(s) | Harish Sivasubramanian |
Project Member(s) | Barry Tan |
Connect with this contributor!
Harish Sivasubramanian - harish_sivasubra@nuhs.edu.sg
Project Attachment
468_NUH_NHIP_2025_Focused_Accelerated_Surgical_Treatment_for_Total_Knee_Replacement_FAST_TKR.pdf