Spotlights
CytoSCOT
The CytoSCOT programme, supported by CfSD, introduced the Oesophageal Cell Collection Device (OCCD) during the COVID-19 pandemic to address the backlog in upper endoscopy services.
The OCCD, was used for Barrett’s Oesophagus surveillance and patients presenting reflux symptoms. To date, almost 7,000 OCCD have been delivered. OCCD significantly reduced waiting times for endoscopy for patients with Barrett’s Oesophagus by 85%.
Following adoption and progression through the ANIA pathway, CytoSCOT transitioned to business-as-usual in April 2024, demonstrating CfSD’s ability to facilitate and support implementation of effective healthcare solutions.
Specialty Delivery Groups
The Centre for Sustainable Delivery (CfSD) has established 14 Specialty Delivery Groups (SDGs) to enhance patient outcomes and access to services across NHS Scotland.
Each SDG, chaired by National Clinical Leads and supported by CfSD Associate Clinical Directors and National Improvement Advisors, promotes clinical leadership and multidisciplinary collaboration. These groups focus on processes, pathways, innovation, and workforce, tailored to each specialty.
By engaging operational managers and clinical teams, SDGs drive consistent and flexible redesign efforts. Collaboration with agencies like Public Health Scotland and NHS Scotland Academy ensures a unified approach. Alignment of national and local priorities is supported by local change teams and the CfSD Heat Map, facilitating measurement and addressing barriers.
Peer Review Process
The peer review process, which is supported by the MPPP and Planned Care Programme Teams, is designed to address unwarranted variation across specialties.
These reviews share best practices to improve patient outcomes, resource efficiency, and staff morale. They foster specialty cohesion, motivation, and competition through open, data-driven discussions.
The Peer Review Process received positive feedback, with participants advocating for repetition. The Orthopaedics review also saw productive discussions and successful redesign sharing. Teams, including Consultants, Specialist Nurses, and Managers, left motivated to enhance local programmes. The peer review approach will expand to more specialties.
Breast Pain Pathway implementation
The implementation of the Breast Pain Pathway, facilitated by CfSD, aimed to reduce waiting times by providing patients with timely information on their condition, virtual and face to face appointments. Of 990 patients vetted to the pathway only 26% (168 patients) required a face to face appointment, releasing 822 appointments for more urgent patients and significantly reducing waiting times.
Two Health Boards reported significant reductions in waiting times, and noted extremely high patient satisfaction. A video was developed to support the pathway's implementation, highlighting its positive impact on efficiency and patient experience.
Headache Pathway
The national Headache toolkit, featuring a comprehensive pathway and management guidance for various headache types, was developed by the Neurology SDG. It was then published on the Right Decision Service platform and is available via the website and mobile app.
This toolkit aids in the assessment, diagnosis, and management of primary and secondary headaches across primary and secondary care. It includes modules on primary care, prophylaxis, treatment advice, imaging access, and specific conditions like migraines during pregnancy.
The well-received pathway will focus on active dissemination and implementation measurement in 2024/25, enhancing headache management and patient care efficiency.