Description
In a recent presentation at a medical conference, Andrew Manktelow shared insights from the East Midlands orthopedic network, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals in improving patient outcomes. He began by introducing the network, which encompasses Nottingham and several surrounding hospitals, and has been active since its NHS pilot inception in 2014. Manktelow highlighted key objectives including enhancing patient care, sharing expertise, and increasing cost efficiency through regular discussions on complex cases.
Over the past eight years, the network has involved 18 consultants and analyzed approximately 2,200 revision surgeries, focusing on the most effective management practices for such procedures. Manktelow noted a significant decrease in complications and re-revisions, particularly within knee surgeries, contrasting the network's results to national trends. Despite challenges in data accuracy, he expressed gratitude for the collaboration with NHS England to evaluate broader outcomes.
Manktelow underscored the essential role of communication and support systems within the network, promoting ongoing dialogue among surgeons through platforms like WhatsApp. He concluded by stressing the value of functional networks in healthcare, encouraging others to establish similar systems for enhanced patient care, while acknowledging the dedicated contributions of all team members involved.