Description
In this transcript from a VTT file, Bob Handley introduces Phil Turner, who discusses the British Orthopaedic Association's (BOA) involvement during the COVID-19 crisis and provides insights into the challenges faced in delivering elective orthopedic services. Phil outlines the actions taken by the BOA in response to the pandemic, including establishing communication lines with NHS England and adapting to the rapidly changing healthcare environment. He highlights the need for urgent action at the onset of the crisis and the importance of managing both urgent and elective care effectively.
Phil emphasizes the various initiatives the BOA undertook, such as developing guidelines for the safe restart of elective surgeries, prioritizing patients based on clinical urgency, and utilizing shared decision-making tools for patient management. He also discusses the ongoing challenges related to training opportunities for orthopedic trainees and the impact of the pandemic on elective surgery waiting times.
The presentation touches on the importance of collaboration with other healthcare providers and the need for healthcare systems to adapt to local conditions while maintaining patient safety. Phil concludes with a call to action for focusing on training, effective waiting list management, and ensuring equity in access to surgical services, underlining that elective surgery is essential for patient well-being.