In order to facilitate timely and comprehensive access to varicose vein management, the Vancouver Island Vascular Surgery Group has made patient-centered adjustments to their referral and assessment process. Their goal is to provide the highest quality care for all aspects of chronic venous insufficiency.
1) Varicose vein ultrasounds are no longer required for referral
While not discouraged, due to staffing shortages within Island Health, they have increased their capacity to offer office-based venous reflux assessments as part of their consultations. These can be performed during the patient visit.
2) Wait times are significantly reduced
They have increased their capacity to see venous-related consultations in a timely fashion. Varicose vein consults are currently being seen within the first year. This has been made possible through expansion of the group, increased operative resources at the South Island Surgical Centre, and increased nursing staff in their office.
3) Comprehensive management of venous insufficiency
- Vascular surgery, as the Royal College certified specialty for the management of all aspects of venous insufficiency, is a vital step in comprehensive patient management.
- Through the UVLC clinic, venous wounds can be assessed on an expedited basis and managed by a multidisciplinary team. This allows for the development of a comprehensive treatment plan, including wound care and management of venous and any associated arterial pathology.
- By improving access, patients will have more reliable and timely access to comprehensive venous care. This approach addresses all aspects of disease management, with the goal of reducing recurrence, minimizing complications, and improving patient outcomes.
4) New location #200-1770 Fort Street, Victoria, BC
- They will be locating to a new site close to the Royal Jubilee Hospital
- Their new location increases available clinic space as they work to expand access to management of venous insufficiency for Vancouver Island.