The Central LHIN is working to improve care for musculoskeletal conditions through the implementation of a new model of care; MSK Central Intake, Assessment and Management — a centralized referral system for musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. Referrals for primary hip and knee arthroplasty are the first type of MSK surgery to be processed under the new Central Intake, Assessment and Management system.

Learn more about changes to care for people with musculoskeletal conditions and access the MSK Central Intake Fact Sheet on the Central LHIN website.

By choosing TJAC, you're helping to reduce wait times for everyone, including yourself. Your primary assessment by a TJAC clinician gets you on the right treatment path faster. While the TJAC clinicians perform assessments, TJAC surgeons have more time to perform surgeries. 

This streamlined process means shorter wait times for you, for both assessment and surgery. If you're having surgery, TJAC will meet your needs so that you can choose a specific surgeon, hospital, or simply take the soonest available surgical date.

  1. To be seen at TJAC you must have a referral from your physician or family doctor. 
  2. Once your doctor has sent a referral form, you will be contacted by a TJAC staff member to set up an assessment appointment within two weeks. A comprehensive assessment includes physical, social and lifestyle status.  
  3. Should you require surgery, you will return for a second visit with an orthopaedic surgeon (usually within two–three weeks) to discuss the next steps. Patients may choose surgery with the surgeon of their choice at the hospital of their choice, or with the first available surgeon at either of the two hospitals.
  4. If you aren't ready, or if surgery is unnecessary at this time, you will receive a comprehensive non-surgical plan to help you better manage your condition. This plan will be developed to help you and your primary care physician manage your condition (for example pain control, weight management) to maintain or improve your level of functioning and overall health. From a patient's perspective, other factors can affect their willingness to have surgery, such as living circumstances, employment status, age, other health conditions and social support structures.
Orthopaedic Pathways