The most up to date government advice is to stay at home and away from others (social distancing).
“The single most important action we can take, in fighting coronavirus, is to stay at home in order to protect the NHS and save lives.” (GOV.UK, 2020, para1)
“Musculoskeletal Conditions account for 30 percent of GP consultations in England. Low back pain and neck pain are the greatest cause of years lost due disability in the UK, with chronic joint pain or osteoarthritis affecting more than 8.75 million people in the UK.” (NHS, 2020, Musculoskeletal, para1)
“Our audit found that MSK triage services reduce demand for secondary care services by 10%. This means that those patients who need to be seen by a hospital consultant are seen as quickly as possible and, those who don’t are saved an unnecessary hospital visit” (NHS, 2020, Musculoskeletal, para3)
During this pandemic we are keen to continue support MSK patients and relieve the pressure in primary care by the use of telephone consultations and/or video link, which includes:
1. Offering surgeries a direct line for booking of MSK patients to relieve pressure through increased volume of calls. Click here for more info
2. Screening patients to exclude serious pathology
3. Giving patients verbal advice/exercises on the management of their condition
4. Providing links to video and advice via email or post with patient specific program and advice on progression of their rehabilitation at a time with limited MSK resource. Click here for examples of exercises and advice resources
This is done off site at home so as to reduce the footfall through surgeries and meet the government guidelines.
We currently deliver from the following surgeries.
Patient Testimonials
” I have been doing as you advised and now, all very much better and almost back to normal: thank you. Keep safe and well.”
“Thank you ever so much for your phone call Joanne. It’s nice to finally actually talk to an expert and has put my mind at rest. I will get on wth the exercises you have sent me. Take care.”
“Great to talk to a professional”
GP Surgery Testimonials
“MSK patients are still out there and need help. It is an excellent and effective way to continue to deliver this service”
“The video appointment is an excellent way to offer these consultations”
“Emailing patients video links and exercises with an explanation of their condition and management not only gives the patient a thorough understanding of their condition but also a good reference to revisit the advice and exercises to help remember them should help with compliance and therefore recovery”