Overview

In early 2022, Outpatient Network launched a large-scale insourcing programme to support a South of England NHS Trust in tackling significant gynaecology outpatient backlogs. At the time, thousands of patients had been waiting over 48 weeks for an appointment.

Through close collaboration with the Trust’s senior operational and clinical teams, a 12-week programme was implemented to see approximately 3,500 patients across General Benign, Urogynaecology, and Ambulatory Hysteroscopy clinics.

Key Results

54% of patients discharged

12% added to PIFU pathways

Zero adverse events

Clinics run efficiently every weekend

No reliance on agency staff

On-site management presence throughout mobilisation

Patient Experience Metrics

Category Score
Consent 100%
Explanation of Treatment 100%
Answering Questions 99.7%
Team Satisfaction 100%
Overall Service Satisfaction 100%
Would Use Service Again 100%

Our Approach

To meet the ambitious goal of eliminating all 48-week waiters, Outpatient Network implemented:

  • A fully mobilised multidisciplinary team, including gynaecology consultants and healthcare assistants

  • Robust governance structures aligned with NHS and Royal College standards

  • Seamless integration with existing NHS pathways

  • Real-time data capture, reporting, and service tracking

  • Proactive weekend management with onsite presence to troubleshoot and optimise delivery

“OPN’s mobilisation plan and rapid troubleshooting continuously through the programme meant that we stayed on target throughout. Their management team worked on-site every weekend, addressing teething issues in real-time during the implementation of this large-scale programme.”

Outcomes & Impact

Outpatient Network’s insourcing model gave the Trust the capacity and confidence to address their backlog within the 12-week window, delivering safe and effective care at scale. The proactive partnership and transparent reporting allowed clinical leads and operational managers to monitor progress and quality in real-time.

The Trust successfully cleared its longest-waiting patients while maintaining outstanding patient experience and avoiding pressure on internal teams.

Conclusion

This case study demonstrates Outpatient Network’s ability to scale rapidly, uphold clinical excellence, and deliver measurable impact for NHS Trusts. Through close collaboration, real-time governance, and high-performing clinical teams, we help transform backlog into progress — without compromise.

Service Delivered

Insourced General Benign Gynaecology & Hysteroscopy Clinics

Project Duration

12 Weeks

Total Patients Seen

3,500

Target

Eliminate 48-Week Waiters

Discharge Rate

54%

General Benign PIFU (Patient-Initiated Follow-Up)

12%

Adverse Events

None