Importance Single-entry models (SEMs) can decrease wait times by placing patients in a common queue to see the first available physician. SEMs may be suitable to manage wait times in pediatric otolaryngology; however, understanding is lacking on stakeholder perceptions, and no previous studies have evaluated SEMs specifically for pediatric otolaryngology patients. Objective To evaluate the views of referring physicians and otolaryngologists on the role of SEMs in managing surgical backlogs for high-volume procedures, and to investigate their recommendations for optimal SEM design and implementation. Design A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews (according to COREQ and SRQR guidelines). Setting Primary care and referral settings across Ontario, Canada. Participants Twelve referring physicians who refer to pediatric otolaryngologists and 11 otolaryngologists were recruited through purposive sampling. Eligibility criteria included physicians that work in Ontario. Intervention or Exposures This study investigated the perceptions of referring physicians and otolaryngologists on the concept of implementing SEMs for pediatric otolaryngology. Main Outcome Measures Referring physicians’ and otolaryngologists’ perceptions of SEMs as a method of managing wait times in pediatric otolaryngology. Results Four thematic domains, each with subdomains, were identified: (1) perceived value of SEMs; (2) operational design and digital integration; (3) evidence and resourcing; and (4) adoption, scope, and system pressures. Conclusions SEMs are viewed as a viable option to address the surgical backlog in pediatric otolaryngology, from the perspective of referring physicians and otolaryngologists. Relevance Implementation of an SEM should consider ease of use, adequate support resources, strong and regular communication with all stakeholders, long-term funding, and transparency.
Shapiro et al. (Thu,) studied this question.