A generous donation by the Guru Nanak Naam Ladies Jatha Group leads to improved patient experience at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital (ROH).
Thanks to a donation of almost £5,000 from the Guru Nanak Naam Ladies Jatha Group, Royal Orthopaedic Charity (ROC) have purchased a handheld ultrasound device for high-definition imaging of superficial structures from nerves and vessels to musculoskeletal and lung imaging up to 7 cm to be used within ROH clinics.
The portable Clarius L15 HD Wireless Scanner with Needle Visualisation Software is a versatile tool that supports the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions in Therapy Services at the ROH. This cutting-edge technology equips pain management clinicians with the ability to conduct on-the-spot assessments and interventions, enhancing overall efficiency and reducing patient wait times.
The need of a wireless ultrasound scanner was recognised within our pain management clinics. With only one large scanner located in the injection suite, a space frequently occupied by clinicians and their patients, scheduling limitations became apparent. This immobile scanner posed a challenge for both patients and medical professionals, leading us to explore alternative solutions.
Enter Mrs Notay, a pivotal figure in the acquisition of the wireless ultrasound scanner. Mrs Notay, a patient of Dr Kafafy’s, has a clear heartfelt desire to contribute to improving patient experience. Mrs Notay is a member of the Guru Nanak Naam Ladies Jatha Group; a keen unit of Sikh ladies who raise funds for UK charities through devotional praise.
Driven by appreciation following the care she received, Mrs Notay graciously offered, on behalf of the Guru Nanak Ladies Group, to donate funds to ROC, with the support of Dr Kafafy influencing how the money is spent. With the clear need for a more versatile ultrasound device already recognised, the Clarius L15 HD Wireless Scanner was purchased.
As the scanner integrates into our clinics, initial feedback from patients has been overwhelmingly positive. The ability to provide injection treatment during routine appointments has resonated positively with patients seeking pain management.
The impact of the portable ultrasound scanner reaches beyond mere convenience. The overarching goal is to establish a comprehensive and efficient service for patients, one that eliminates the need for extended waiting periods. Traditionally, patients scheduled for knee, shoulder, elbow, leg, or foot injections have endured an 18-week wait in the injection suite. With the scanner’s capabilities, clinicians can now administer certain injections during clinic visits, significantly reducing patient wait times. Additionally, this innovation frees space within the injection suite for more complex cases that require X-ray services.
Looking to the future, a meticulous plan for evaluating the scanner’s impact has been set in motion. The objective is to gauge the extent to which the new technology mitigates patient waiting times for injections. Through diligent data collection and analysis, the effectiveness of the wireless ultrasound scanner will be audited by the Pain Management Team, allowing us to measure its contributions to patient care.
A huge, profound thank you goes out to Mrs Notay and the Guru Nanak Naam Ladies Jatha Group who kindly donated almost £5,000 to fund and support this device, also thank you to Dr Kafafy, Pain Consultant, who worked hard to implement the device being brought into clinic.
