STORY
Thousands of patients with musculoskeletal conditions are to receive faster treatment and employment support under an England-wide expansion of an NHS pilot scheme. The Government said £3.2 million would be used to roll out the Getting It Right First Time musculoskeletal community programme, following a pilot that cut 18-week waiting lists by around 20% in participating areas.
The programme will support community appointment days and specialist clinics bringing together clinicians, mental health support, physical activity services and employment advice. Ministers said the approach was intended to help people receive diagnosis and treatment more quickly while also supporting those whose health problems are keeping them out of work.
Musculoskeletal conditions affect nearly 18 million people in England and are among the leading causes of health-related economic inactivity. Sharon Hodgson, the Minister for Public Health and Prevention, said the NHS should support economic growth by helping people get care more quickly and return to normal life
where possible.