E-Posters-10142_Miles

10142_Miles_Thomas

Pdf Summary

This study focused on the creation and implementation of a clinical care pathway for patients with overactive bladder (OAB). OAB is a common problem with a significant impact on quality of life and socioeconomic burden. The lack of patient education and standardization of care has led to poor treatment outcomes for this condition.<br /><br />The study implemented an OAB care pathway based on guidelines from the American Urological Association (AUA) and the Society of Urodynamics, Female Pelvic Medicine and Urogenital Reconstruction (SUFU). OAB "Champion" physicians were identified to develop and standardize the patient care pathway. Referral avenues were established for non-Champion physicians to refer patients into the OAB Clinic. <br /><br />To manage patients and ensure adherence to the guidelines, an OAB nurse navigator and nurse practitioner were hired. Data was collected from the electronic medical records (EMR) using pre-implementation dates of 6/1/15-6/30/16 and post-implementation dates of 7/1/16-12/31/16.<br /><br />The results of the study showed that the implementation of the care pathway led to a decrease in new patient attrition rate from 74% to 59%. There was also an increase in the rate of penetrance to third-line treatment therapy, indicating improved management of patients with OAB. Both patient and provider satisfaction increased due to ease of referral and communication with the nurse practitioner and nurse navigator.<br /><br />In conclusion, this study demonstrated the successful implementation of an OAB care pathway based on AUA/SUFU guidelines. Standardized treatment protocols improved outcomes and satisfaction for both patients and providers. The study highlights the importance of standardized care pathways in managing large patient populations effectively.

Keywords

clinical care pathway

overactive bladder

patient education

standardization of care

treatment outcomes

OAB Champion physicians

OAB Clinic

nurse practitioner

electronic medical records

patient satisfaction