International journal of rheumatic diseases
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There is strong rationale for improving care for people with chronic conditions, including osteoarthritis (OA). Successful implementation of healthcare reform requires new concepts and directions that are strongly supported by policy, new models of care (service redesign) and changes in day-to-day practice (healthcare provider and patient practice). In this paper we discuss the extent to which policy about management of OA of the hip and knee has been translated into new service models in Australia. ⋯ Primarily focused within acute care public hospital settings, these have been shown to be feasible and acceptable but have limited data on clinical impact and cost-effectiveness. While policy is extant, implementation has not been systematic and comprehensive. Clinicians have evidence-based recommendations for OA management but are poorly supported by service models to deliver these effectively and efficiently.
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To validate the Oxford Knee Score (OKS) in outpatients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). ⋯ The OKS has demonstrated good psychometric properties and thus can be considered a reliable and valid measurement for outpatients with OA.
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Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of disability with incidence and prevalence rising in most nations. Management to address the degenerative joint is stratified according to degree of severity of involvement and always begins with non-surgical modalities before progressing through a range of surgeries, including arthroscopy, osteotomy, unicompartmental and total knee replacement. ⋯ Complications, poor patient satisfaction and joint function can be directly attributable to obesity. Efforts to address obesity should be considered as part of the approach to managing osteoarthritis.