Feasibility study of hernia surgery in a general practice setting.

BACKGROUND

In the early 1990s, waiting times for some surgical procedures and opinions for such routine problems as groin hernia repair were unacceptably long. General practitioners with a special interest (GPwSIs) in general surgery may improve this, but little evidence exists as to whether such service developments may improve efficiency and effectiveness of care.

AIMS

To reduce the waiting time by offering a surgical service from a general practice setting without compromising on quality and safety of patient care.

DESIGN OF STUDY

Feasibility study.

SETTING

One general practice and the patient population of northwest Norfolk.

METHODS

A GPwSI whose special interest was in general surgery started offering a surgical service, including open hernia repair, from a purpose-built operating theatre within general practice premises.

RESULTS

Four thousand, nine hundred and sixty-five surgical procedures, including 286 inguinal hernia repairs, were performed. Quality and safety of patient care were not compromised and the waiting time was reduced from 18 months to 4 months.

CONCLUSION

It is feasible to perform open inguinal hernia repairs in a general practice setting.