2nd June 2025
An innovative Southern Health and Social Care Trust project has significantly cut hand and wrist waiting times.
The Hand and Wrist Backlog Project, part of the Trauma and Orthopaedic service, was set up to tackle a list of nearly 2000 people waiting for their first outpatient review. Launched in October 2023, the pilot saw Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic Practitioners run extra clinics to help reduce delays. By March 2025, more than 1800 patients had been seen, cutting the waiting list by 89%, with only 201 patients still waiting.
In recognition of this achievement, the team received the Elective Care Recognition Award for May 2025 for its outstanding contribution to elective care.
Cathrine Reid, Director of Surgical and Clinical Services, said:
“While pressures remain across many specialities, this project shows that focused multidisciplinary work can make a real difference for patients.
“I want to thank the whole team for delivering such an intensive clinic programme and helping so many patients who had been waiting too long.”
The success of the project was down to strong teamwork across services, including Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic Practitioners, Hand and Wrist Consultants, Occupational Therapists, Radiologists and Administrative staff. Together they made sure patients were assessed, treated or referred to the right care, freeing up consultant-led clinics to focus on more complex cases.
Cathrine added:
“We are committed to building a culture where innovation is part of everyday practice. The Southern Trust will continue to prioritise improving access across all services, reducing waiting lists and delivering the best care possible for our people.”