However, the impact of musculoskeletal disease on general health cannot be underestimated. Based on SF-36 data, diseases such as rotator cuff tear and adhesive capsulitis have a more severe impact upon a patient's perception of general health than hypertension, acute myocardial infarction, diabetes, congestive heart failure and clinical depression. Further, recent communication from the Medical Outcomes Trust indicates that, based on comparison of SF-36 scores, five of the top 10 most efficacious medical interventions are orthopaedic surgical procedures. In order to demonstrate the value of orthopaedic surgery, it is important that we all collect outcomes data. If the collection of this data is properly integrated with patient care, it can save time and money rather than increase cost and labor, as is commonly perceived.
Patient administration is the only uniform method of data collection.
The key to widespread compliance is the development and implementation of low-cost systems that capture these data during routine office practice. Outcomes data are central to demonstrating our value to payers and to the public, who are all potential patients. From this perspective, the public can be a powerful ally in support of musculoskeletal care. Outcomes data is a means to protect, and in some instances restore, value in the provision of the service for which we have been uniquely trained, musculoskeletal disease management and orthopaedic surgery.