Hip and Knee Rapid Access Clinic

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition which means it gets worse over time. People with osteoarthritis often live with pain and mobility issues. This can make waiting a long time without treatment difficult.

Our clinic offers faster access to appointments with an APP who can assess your condition and arrange for further tests and, if necessary, surgery.  

This program is part of Health Quality Ontario quality improvement initiatives.   

What to expect

At your first appointment, you will meet an advance practice physiotherapist (APP) with specialized training in osteoarthritis evaluation and care. The APP will perform a thorough assessment of your condition and talk to you about your symptoms.  

We will then work with you to decide on a care plan that is specific to your needs. We may recommend tests to help diagnose and monitor your condition. We may also recommend self-management strategies or surgery to treat your condition.  

Self-management strategies are exercises that strengthen your muscles, reduce the pressure on your joints and increase your mobility. If you agree to these exercises, you will have several follow-up appointments at our clinic to check your condition and adjust your program as needed.  

If you and the APP think you might benefit from surgery, you will be referred for an urgent appointment with an orthopaedic surgeon. If you are approved for surgery, we will work with you on self-management strategies for before and after your surgery. Learn more about hip and knee surgery. 

Please note we are a teaching hospital, so you may see medical students, residents or other health professional trainees as part of your care. Learners are supervised by other members of our dedicated care team who work together to provide you with comprehensive care.  

What to bring

• Health (OHIP) card or valid health-care coverage
• A list of your current medications  
• Any recent test results you have received, like X-rays or MRIs
• Shorts and comfortable walking shoes 

How to access our services

You need a referral from a health-care provider to be seen at our clinic. Visit our referral criteria for more information.