Garda and Bassa Brescia Improve Outpatient and Lab Waiting Times
Significantly improves the waiting times for outpatient clinics and laboratories within the healthcare facilities of Garda and Bassa Bresciana, managed by the Azienda Ospedaliera di Desenzano, which includes hospitals in Gavardo, Salò, Lonato, Leno, and Manerbio.
Current Situation and Public Communication
Compared to the objectives set by the Regione and the data released by the ASL of Brescia, which relates to last February, the situation has markedly improved. Moreover, recently, Director General Angelo Foschini signed a decree initiating the communication plan regarding waiting lists for 2000.
From now on, the plan concerning waiting times for outpatient and diagnostic procedures will be widely promoted, with bi-weekly updates posted in all hospitals and major user hubs.
The waiting times for the main services provided will also be made known to the public through dedicated monitors placed in various locations, without relying on newspapers, radio and television stations, or the internet (www.onde.net/aod/index.htm, pending the activation of the company’s official website: www.aod.it in the coming months).
Additionally, the Service Charter is in preparation, and shortly, the company’s informational leaflet should be available.
Monitoring and Achieved Results
“The company has documented the actual waiting times, monitoring the period up to the end of July,” explains Health Director Professor Alfonso Castellani. “Compared to the survey conducted in February, there has been a significant improvement.”
But how has it been possible to further reduce these times? Clarifies Director General Foschini: “We achieved such results thanks to the committed efforts of medical, nursing, and technical staff, who, with considerable effort and by extending service times beyond normal hours, made it possible to meet the company’s goals while respecting regional directives.”
Examples of Improvements in Hospital Facilities
Examples abound. At Desenzano Hospital, an electrocardiogram takes 3 days (compared to the 20 days mandated by the Region), allergy tests also 3 days (versus 20), and gastroscopy 2 days (versus 20).
In Gavardo, an ECG takes 3 days, 16 for a neurological examination, and 2 for a gynecological consultation, although the overall situation at this hospital still requires further improvement.
The situation at Manerbio Hospital is also positive, with excellent waiting times relative to regional targets. An ECG waits between 0 to 6 days, the same for a gastroscopy and surgical procedures.
10 days for laser treatment in ophthalmology, up to 6 days for a gynecological visit, and 28 days for a mammogram, compared to the 30 days set by the Region.
However, this is an exceptional case, because for other services, Manerbio is a highlight within the Desenzano hospital network.
Conclusions and Benefits for Citizens
Ultimately, the goals set months ago have been more than surpassed: for citizens, waiting times are no longer prohibitive, resulting in significant benefits for health, prevention, and treatment of diseases, as well as the quality of services provided.
Maurizio Toscano