Virtual fracture clinics beat hospital visits in world trial
Sydney researchers found virtual fracture care produced better results for patients than traditional hospital clinics. This was in a world-first randomised trial.
Researchers at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital tested virtual fracture care. They compared it to in-person clinic outcomes in a randomised controlled trial published in The Lancet journal.
Patients treated on video calls had higher physical function scores at 12 weeks. They reported fewer adverse events than those seen in hospital.
Patients in virtual care also rated their experience higher in every area. The researchers believe virtual patients benefited from longer, more frequent check-ups.
Physiotherapists could explain injuries and show exercises without time pressure. This finding could ease pressure on Australia's orthopaedic clinics.
They handle more patients than any other outpatient service.
- Almost 407,000
- Fracture cases nationwide 2024-25
- 0.5 points higher
- Physical function score advantage at 12
- 2020
- Virtual fracture clinic launched
- The Lancet journal eClinicalMedicine
- Trial published in
Why it mattersFractures are the most common injury type seen in emergency departments. Proving virtual care works better means fewer hospital visits. It also means less crowding in emergency departments.
AustraliaAustralian patients with simple fractures can now access faster, more effective care without hospital trips. Emergency departments and surgical wait lists face less pressure.
Corroborated bytheage.com.au·watoday.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 9 d ago
