Nova Scotia Health approaching goal of reduced surgical waitlist
The provincial health authority in Nova Scotia has made significant progress in reducing the surgical backlog, according to the interim head, Karen Oldfield. The goal set by Oldfield in December 2022 to reduce the backlog by 10,000 people by mid-2025 is well on track. The current waitlist stands at 15,769 people as of April 1, down from 17,369 people the year before and 19,917 people in 2023.
The largest procedures with people waiting include cataract extraction, knee replacement, and hip replacement. Oldfield attributes the progress to the health authority’s ability to make and stick to a plan. She emphasized that there is no magic involved, just focus and discipline.
One of the key factors in reducing the backlog has been getting staffing levels back to where they needed to be post-COVID-19 pandemic. The health authority offered a premium for doctors willing to work outside traditional hours to help cut into the backlog. However, Oldfield mentioned that the biggest impact was getting staffing levels back on track.
While Oldfield would like to see more surgeries happening during off-hours, she acknowledges that there needs to be a certain level of staffing to make it work effectively. Utilizing available operating room time and equipment is crucial in reducing the backlog.
Overall, the progress made in reducing the surgical backlog in Nova Scotia is promising. With continued focus and dedication, the province is on track to meet national benchmarks for surgical waitlists. Oldfield remains optimistic about the future and is confident that they are moving in the right direction to address the backlog effectively.
