Post-operative Nurse-led Teleconsultation following Uncomplicated Cataract Surgery
Care Process & Redesign
Technology
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
National University Health System
31 December 2024
Reduce manpower-intensive post-operative week 1 (POW1) clinician reviews and convert these visits into Nurse-led. Successfully reduced unnecessary physical visits and optimized manpower.
Year Submitted: 2024
Published Date: 31 December 2024
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Technology, Productivity, Manhour Saving, Digital Health, Telehealth, Tele-Consultation
About this Content
Aims
Reduce manpower-intensive post-operative week 1 (POW1) clinician reviews and convert these visits into Nurse-led Teleconsultations.
Background
Traditional POW1 follow-ups detected rare (<1/1000) but blinding infections, causing overbooked clinics and long waiting times. The process was labor-intensive, requiring clinicians, nurses, optometrists, and patient service associates (PSAs). Nurses were also underutilized in direct patient management.
Methods
Introduced a telecare model where cataract team nurses conducted POW1 follow-ups via phone, escalating cases to surgeons if necessary. Information sheets in multiple languages were provided.
Results
Reduced physical consultations by 80% over three years, benefiting close to 4,000 patients. Of 270 patients reviewed, none experienced post-op infections.
Conclusion
Successfully reduced unnecessary physical visits and optimized manpower. Future plans include expanding telecare adoption and refining workflows.
Lessons Learnt
Upskilling nurses in telecare enhances patient experience and operational efficiency.
Keywords
Post-Operative Infection, Clinicians, Nurses, Optometrists, Telecare, Physical Consultation
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National University Health System |
Organization(s) Involved | National University Hospital |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Allied Health, Nursing, Medical |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Ophthalmology, Patient Service Associate |
Project Lead(s) | Lin Hui En Hazel Anne |
Project Member(s) | Charmaine Chai |
Connect with this contributor!
Lin Hui En Hazel Anne - ophlhha@nus.edu.sg