Patient and provider experience with a new model of care for primary hip and knee arthroplasties.

BACKGROUND: The orthopaedic program at a large academic teaching hospital introduced a quality initiative for the primary hip and knee arthroplasty population with the goal to reduce the overall length of stay (LOS) to less than 3 days while ensuring an efficient and exceptional patient experience. This article focuses on the process used to evaluate patient and provider satisfaction with the changes made to achieve a reduction in length of stay. METHOD: The initiative involved current and future process mapping, patient and staff education, a comprehensive mobility strategy, pain management pathways and an evaluation of the patient and provider experience. The goal to reduce LOS for both primary hip and knee arthroplasty surgery was achieved. CONCLUSION: The patients were satisfied with their overall experience including their LOS and preparedness for discharge home.