The National Clinical Programme in Surgery (NCPS), a collaboration between the HSE and RCSI, today launched a model of care for vascular surgery. This document outlines the service needs of the population for vascular surgery services and defines a model of care delivery that is accessible, timely and of high quality.

In developing this model of care, the complexity and multisystem nature of vascular disease and the necessity for multidisciplinary specialist input in the care of this cohort of patients were highlighted. The burden of vascular disease experienced by patients with diabetes was specifically addressed and is an area of increasing importance given our aging population.

This model of care sets out recommendations to enable delivery of services of the highest quality over the next 5-10 years. These include the resourcing of centralised services both in terms of staffing and facilities. Key to workforce expansion is the development of new nursing roles with specialist training and an extended scope of practice.

The model of care highlights the importance of establishing a National Vascular Registry to monitor and improve the quality of services and to record all implants. The document also advocates for a national screening programme for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms in line with the UK and most European nations.

Finally, some of the preventative measures that people can take to promote their vascular health such as smoking cessation, exercise and weight control are outlined.

“Launching this model of care is a milestone for vascular surgery. The Irish Vascular surgeons are very keen to proceed with the implementation of these recommendations. The NCPS is very grateful to all those who contributed to this work and in particular to the Irish Vascular Society.”  Mr Martin Feeley, National Clinical Advisor for Vascular Surgery, (NCPS).

“We are delighted to introduce the Vascular Surgery Model of Care which represents our commitment to delivering better care for patients in Ireland”. Ms Mary Barry – Chair of the Irish Vascular Society.

The model of care can be downloaded from publications section at:

https://www.rcsi.com/surgery/practice/national-clinical-programmes/surgery