E-PERISCOPE
Research type
Research Study
Full title
E-PERISCOPE: Evaluation of National Perioperative Screening and Optimisation Programme
IRAS ID
334717
Contact name
Cecilia Vindrola
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
UCL
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Z6364106 2024 03 127, UCL Data Protection Office
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
In the UK, over 10 million surgeries take place annually. Not all such procedures yield favourable outcomes, and several challenges contribute to this. Some challenges, including lifestyle factors and the management of chronic health conditions, can be mitigated if detected early. This is especially true in the context of "multimorbidity," where individuals have multiple long-term health conditions, a common occurrence among older and socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals.
To address these issues, NHS England launched a national programme in 2023 aimed at better preparing patients for surgery. This programme introduces new steps in the preoperative assessment process, contacting patients shortly after they are referred for surgery to identify health risks that could lead to cancelled surgeries or unfavourable outcomes. Based on this assessment, patients receive information and support to improve their overall health before their surgery. The program's goal is to enhance the safety and efficiency of surgical services by reducing the number of patients who are not in optimal health for their procedures.
The E-PERISCOPE study is evaluating the initial period of its launch. The evaluation seeks answers to key questions regarding design, development of local screening and optimisation services, alignment of services with initial plans, and their impact on patient care, safety, outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and health equity.
E-PERISCOPE involves interviews with healthcare professionals and patients, observations of relevant meetings, and analysis of relevant documents and will use rapid qualitative research methods, to provide timely ongoing learning for national leads and local services. Based on this, we will form broader lessons on how this programme was put into action, and how it affected patient safety and service efficiency.
REC name
North East - Tyne & Wear South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/NE/0109
Date of REC Opinion
13 Jun 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion