Fast track accelerated diagnostic investigation for urinary incontinence in women

INTRODUCTION: We have developed a one-hour standardised, accelerated diagnostic investigation programme to evaluate women with urinary incontinence (UI). The purpose of the study was to record how many patients followed the programme and had a diagnosis and a treatment plan after a one-hour visit and to describe the causes of deviation from the programme. A second purpose was to monitor patient satisfaction. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, 276 women with the diagnosis UI participated. All patients completed a standardised investigation programme that included their medical history and an evaluation of the fluid/urination schedule. Before patients left the clinic, they were given a diagnosis and a treatment plan. RESULTS: A total of 91% of the patients underwent examination and had a treatment plan after one consultation; 9% made multiple visits. The median patient age was 59 years (range 17-99 years); body mass index was 27 kg/m2 (range 18-50 kg/m2); and the number of childbirths was 2.4; no significant difference were observed between the two groups. In the multiple-visits group, the number of previous gynaecological surgical procedures was significantly larger (67% versus 32%). These patients had significantly more chronic diseases (88% versus 58%). A total of 81 patients completed a post-examination questionnaire and (99%) were satisfied with the accelerated programme. CONCLUSION: A total of 91% of the patients underwent an examination and received a treatment plan after one consultation; 9% paid several visits due to chronic diseases and previous gynaecological surgery. The patients expressed great satisfaction with the accelerated investigation programme.