An innovative approach has reduced the time from referral to treatment for rhinosinusitis patients by almost 50%.

Rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the nose and sinuses) can be a debilitating condition, but the new service means patients receive clinical assessments and initial investigations at the earliest opportunity, ensuring they are treated more quickly.

Working together to deliver faster, more efficient care for patients, the Head and Neck Directorate at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust took the opportunity to take part in a pilot led by the Outpatients team.

Working in partnership, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialists, alongside Clinical Transformation Lead for Outpatients, Stephanie McKinley and Clinical Management Fellow, Dr Benjamin Bickford, brought the idea to life.

Clinical leads for the project, ENT consultants Mr Julian Hamann and Mr Sridhayan Mahalingam collaborated with Head of Nursing, Claire Manneh, Matron, Sarah Hanlon, and Deputy General Manager, Lucy Savill to design and implement this approach.

Key to the team’s success was the introduction of an innovative nurse-led triage system, overseen by Sister Reena Bobby. Through a weekly telephone assessment clinic, she carefully triages referrals coming into the Trust, speaking with patients to determine next steps for their care.

Thanks to this triage model, patients have a phone consultation early in the process. This means diagnostic tests are arranged promptly, so results are quickly available for clinicians to make informed decisions, giving patients tailored treatment plans and avoiding unnecessary delays.

Patients are able to access the care they need more quickly, reducing waits and improving outcomes.

The streamlined process saves valuable time and enhances the patient experience, ensuring care is timely, personalised, and effective.

Clinical Transformation Lead for Outpatients, Stephanie McKinley, said: “A huge thank you to everyone involved in making this a reality. Through collaboration and dedication we have transformed care for rhinosinusitis patients, making a difference to the lives of those suffering from this debilitating condition.”