Waiting list management: priority criteria or first-in first-out? A case for total joint replacement.

摘要: Background  Total joint replacements are interventions with large waiting times from indication to the surgery management. These patients can be managed in two ways; first-in first-out or through a priority tool. The aim of this study was compare real time on list (TWL) criteria score, developed by our team, awaiting replacement due osteoarthritis. Methods  Consecutive placed were eligible. Patients fulfilled questionnaire which included items tool and Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) specific questionnaire. Other extracted clinical history. gives score 0 100 points, three categories (urgent, preferent ordinary). We studied differences among TWL means one-way analysis variance. Correlational used evaluate association WOMAC baseline gains at 6 months TWL. Results  have 684 patients. Women represented 62% sample. mean age 70 years. There not between (P = 0.12). rho correlation coefficient −0.11. Among scores coefficients 0.79, 0.7 0.52 function, pain stiffness dimensions, respectively. dimensions according (P < 0.001) but no categories. Data both health-related quality life similar, regarding TWL. Conclusions  results support necessity implementing prioritization system instead actual if we want manage for equity.