The O.P.E.N. Survey: outreach projects in Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) in New South Wales

Abstract

Background: This study aims to map the coverage of Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) outreach clinics in New South Wales (NSW) over a 5-year period [2012][2013][2014][2015][2016]. It also aims to determine the extent of engagement in outreach work among NSW and ACT-based ENT surgeons over this period. Methods: Online and telephone survey of ENT surgeons practising in NSW and ACT conducted between December 2016 and May 2017. The survey was designed to identify the location, frequency and the number of ENT surgeons providing outreach services in NSW. A secondary outcome of the survey was the current and future rates of participation in outreach projects by NSW and ACT-based ENT surgeons.Results: Eighteen surgeons provided at least one ENT outreach service in NSW between 2012 and 2016.The average yearly commitment was 5.5 days (SD 4.2 days). Eighteen distinct towns in NSW received an outreach service. In the majority of cases, a visiting surgeon provided outreach services to the same town for at least three consecutive years. Surgeons who obtained their Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) after 2005 had the highest interest in future participation.Conclusions: Approximately 1 in 5 NSW and ACT-based ENT surgeons perform outreach activities.The data suggests that many remote and rural towns within NSW are not receiving outreach services. Better coordination of services and a commitment to regular and well-constructed outreach programs could redress this imbalance. The expressed intention to become involved in future outreach programs, particularly among the younger surgeons, needs to be encouraged and supported for this to be realised.

Effectiveness of ear, nose and throat outreach programmes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians: a systematic review

“… 10 In Australia, referral to ENT specialists care is complex and varies across jurisdictions, with limited access to public ENT clinics. 11 However, in rural and remote settings, Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander children face wait times that are longer than recommended for audiology testing and ENT services, with a higher likelihood that these services are unavailable. The practice of most ENT surgeons in Australia is largely confined to metropolitan areas, and few participate in outreach clinics to rural and remote areas.…”

“…The practice of most ENT surgeons in Australia is largely confined to metropolitan areas, and few participate in outreach clinics to rural and remote areas. 11 To access ENT specialist services in these areas, patients are generally required to overcome barriers including travel, culturally inappropriate services and unfamiliar health system processes. 12 13 Furthermore, the current system fails to routinely deliver care that aligns with government guidelines, 14 nor provide culturally safe and accessible clinical pathways.…”

The effectiveness of Ear Nose and Throat outreach programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians: a systematic review

“…The majority of otitis media is managed in primary healthcare with referral to ENT specialists for assessment and surgical interventions where appropriate [10]. In Australia, referral to ENT specialists care is complex and varies across jurisdictions, with limited access to public ENT clinics [11]. However, in rural and remote settings, Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander children face wait times that are longer than recommended for audiology testing and ENT services, with a higher likelihood that these services are unavailable.…”

Time to harness ear, nose and throat surgeons' overwhelming support for increasing Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander outreach services

“…4,5 Historically, ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeon participation rates in outreach in Australia range from 29% to 33% 6,7 with a recent study in New South Wales showing a yearly participation rate of 15%. 8 An online survey was sent via email to all members of the ASOHNS. It consisted of two main sections with the first being focused on the current outreach participation while the second section focused on interest and suggestions for improvement of outreach.…”

“…Historically, ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeon participation rates in outreach in Australia range from 29% to 33% 6,7 with a recent study in New South Wales showing a yearly participation rate of 15% 8 …”