A Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Triage Clinic

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of triaging patients with motion-provoked dizziness into a benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) clinic. Method A retrospective chart review was performed of veterans who were tested and treated for BPPV in a triaged BPPV clinic and veterans who were tested and treated for BPPV in a traditional vestibular clinic. Results The BPPV triage clinic had a hit rate of 39%. On average, the triaged BPPV clinic reduced patient wait times by 23 days relative to the wait times for the traditional vestibular clinic while also reducing patient costs. Conclusion Triaging patients with BPPV is one method to improve access to evaluation and treatment and a mechanism for the effective use of clinic time and resources.