Canadian journal of surgery. Journal canadien de chirurgie
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Comparative Study
A comparison of surgical delays in directly admitted versus transferred patients with hip fractures: opportunities for improvement?
The increasing incidence of hip fractures in our aging population challenges orthopedic surgeons and hospital administrators to effectively care for these patients. Many patients present to regional hospitals and are transferred to tertiary care centres for surgical management, resulting in long delays to surgery. Providing timely care may improve outcomes, as delay carries an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. ⋯ Policy changes can have a significant impact on patient care. Prioritizing patients and expediting transfer will decrease overall mortality, reduce hospital stay and reduce the cost of hip fracture care.