Rapid Access Clinic

Overcrowded Emergency Departments, growing prevalence of chronic disease and higher consumer expectations for quality health care, coupled with the rising cost of health care within limited budgets, poses significant challenges (Trankle, Usherwood, Abbott & Roberts et al., 2019). The Prince Charles Hospital Rapid Access Clinic provides an alternative pathway to hospital admission or extended waiting in the Emergency Department for patients that require review within 2-5 days. This initiative aims to improve the patients’ access to, and experience of, healthcare, reduce Emergency Department presentations, overcrowding and wait times, as well as reducing the burden on inpatient services and unplanned representations associated with early discharge. Upholding National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards – Partnering with Consumers – Rapid Access Clinics focus on delivering patient centred care with early involvement of specialist assessment and management.