This statement has been provided by ACC, asking that we share the following, particularly with members with an interest in musculoskeletal and/or orthopaedics.These statements include the use of Xray and ultrasound imaging, as well as injections and knee arthroscopy treatments for ACC clients.

Tēnā koe,

As part of our commitment to delivering good outcomes for our clients, NZOA and ACC have collaborated on the Choosing Wisely campaign, which seeks to reduce unnecessary low-value treatments and tests for orthopaedic patients within New Zealand. 

We have created five statements for the Choosing Wisely campaign to promote a culture where clinicians avoid low-value and inappropriate interventions, as well as support patients and health professionals to have well-informed conversations about their treatment options, leading to better decisions and outcomes.

These five statements reflect current research, evidence, and clinical best practice in orthopaedics. The intent is that clients will only receive clinically appropriate procedures which are meaningful for a diagnosis and to inform their treatment plans.

These statements are now available on the Health Quality & Safety Commission website: https://www.hqsc.govt.nz/resources/choosing-wisely/recommendations-and-resources/for-clinicians/new-zealand-orthopaedic-association. I encourage you to take a moment to read it and consider what it means for your practice and how you work with our clients.      

We acknowledge there will be some differences in delivery based on several factors including geographic location, local expertise, and available equipment.

Acknowledgements

We’d like to thank NZOA and the genuine partnership we have created through this work. This collaboration is an example of our commitment for the benefit of providers and our clients. We would also like to thank RANZCR and others who worked with us on these statements for their valuable contributions. 

If you have any immediate queries, please contact Emma.O’loughlin@acc.co.nz.

Ngā mihi nui,

Dr John Robson

Head of Health Partnerships and Chief Clinical Officer for ACC