Long waiting lists cause a "Vertigo Issue" many health care systems - from Croatian perspective

Abstract

After headache, vertigo is the most common symptom, not only in neurology or otorhinolaryngology but also one of the most common symptoms in medicine in general. Due to the different aetiology, acute and chronic manifestations, combination with other diseases, drugs, or other substances such as narcotics, alcohol or synthetic drugs, and unclear description of vertiginous symptoms on admission, vertigo as a disease or only a symptom can easily mislead. Due to the illusiveness of the symptoms as perceived and reported by patients and doctors alike, vertiginous symptoms warrant cooperation between patients and doctors, and amongst doctors of different specialities as well. In the Republic of Croatia, as well as in the rest of Europe 1 , the waiting lists for an appointment in the hospital are getting longer and longer. Moreover, it can take several months to a year to get an appointment with a specialist. Waiting listsThe waiting list for hospitals for vertigo can vary depending on several factors, such as the healthcare system in a particular country or region, the availability of specialized healthcare providers, and the severity of the condition. In general, the waiting times for treatment of vertigo can range from a few weeks to several months. This is because there may be a limited number of healthcare professionals who specialize in treating vertigo, such as otolaryngologists or neurologists. Additionally, diagnostic tests, such as vestibular function tests or imaging studies, may also contribute to the waiting time. There can be several issues associated with waiting lists for vertigo treatment. Some common challenges include: a) Limited resources: Hospitals and healthcare facilities may have a limited number of specialists, equipment, and resources dedicated to diagnosing and treating vertigo. This can result in longer waiting times for patients seeking treatment. b) High demand: Vertigo is a common symptom, and many individuals may seek medical attention for its treatment. The high demand for services can contribute to longer waiting lists. c) Prioritization of cases: Hospitals often prioritize patients based on the severity of their condition.Patients with more severe or urgent cases may be given priority over those with less urgent cases. This can lead to longer waiting times for individuals with milder or less urgent symptoms. d) Geographic location: The availability of specialized healthcare providers can vary depending on the geographic location. Individuals residing in rural or remote areas may have limited access to healthcare services, resulting in longer waiting times.