Rising to the Challenge: Models of Efficiency Resulting from COVID-19

Description

This transcript captures Peter MacDonald delivering a presentation at a health care meeting, thanking attendees and addressing a pressing issue in surgery and diagnostics in Manitoba, Canada. The discussion begins with acknowledgments and humor about the logistics of presenting, before transitioning into serious topics concerning the backlog of medical procedures exacerbated by COVID-19. Peter shares his personal journey of being appointed the chair of the Diagnostic and Surgery Recovery Task Force, highlighting the significant number of stalled procedures in the region. He discusses the various categories for assessment, focusing on surgical and diagnostic needs, human resource challenges, and the importance of technology and patient engagement.



The presentation outlines the critical need for expanding surgical capacity and human resources, emphasizing the role of private surgical centers and innovative strategies to manage waitlists. MacDonald mentions specific areas, such as cardiac and orthopedic surgeries, where wait times have dramatically increased. He details efforts to contract procedures out to private facilities and highlights the importance of improving patient experiences, as reflected by patient satisfaction despite the ongoing challenges.



Throughout the talk, MacDonald emphasizes the long-term goal of restoring the health care system's capabilities post-pandemic while also addressing the immediate need for action. He concludes by summarizing the pressing HR challenges, the importance of improved data collection and waitlist management, and the various strategies that the task force is implementing to tackle this daunting issue effectively.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-221992

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