Are We Providing Timely Access to Musculoskeletal Outpatient Therapy Services? an Exploratory Study
This study explores how waiting for NHS musculoskeletal (MSK) therapy appointments in Wales impacts patients. Currently, if you get an appointment within 14 weeks, it's considered on time, but we don't know if this is the best measure for everyone. Some people's conditions might get better while they wait, while others might get worse, depending on things like their age or mental health. Researchers will ask people on waiting lists to complete surveys at the start and end of their wait to see how their pain and daily lives are affected. Some will also share their experiences. This will help understand if the 14-week target works for all and how to improve support for those with bone, joint, or muscle conditions in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Access to NHS services, especially how long people have to wait, is a big topic of discussion, and it's something many of us are concerned about. Sometimes, longer waits can make things harder for people needing care. In Wales, if you're waiting for help with problems affecting your bones, joints, or muscles (called musculoskeletal or MSK conditions), the aim is for you to be seen within 14 weeks. This target has been set for everyone, no matter what their condition is or how it's affecting their daily life.
However, we know that waiting for MSK treatment can affect people differently. For some, their condition might improve on its own, but for others, their pain or ability to move could get worse. It seems that personal factors, like a person's age or mental health, might play a part in how they cope with waiting. This makes us wonder if a single 14-week target is really suitable for everyone.
This study wants to find out what it's truly like to wait for these services. We want to understand if waiting beyond 14 weeks significantly affects people, and crucially, we want to hear about the actual experiences of those waiting. By gathering this information, we hope to understand if the current target is effective and if there are better ways to support people needing care for their MSK conditions.
Key takeaways
- This study looks at how waiting times for NHS MSK therapy in Wales affect patients.
- The current target is for appointments within 14 weeks, but this might not suit everyone.
- You would complete surveys about your condition at the start and end of your wait.
- Some people might also share their experiences of waiting.
- The findings could help improve future care for bone, joint, and muscle problems.
- Participation will not affect your usual NHS care.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 or over. You must currently be on a waiting list in Wales for an outpatient appointment with a podiatrist (foot specialist), occupational therapist (who helps with daily activities), or physiotherapist (who helps with movement) because of a musculoskeletal problem, like issues with your bones, joints, or muscles.
You also need to be able to fully understand what the study involves and agree to take part (this is called giving informed consent). It’s also important that you can read and write in English to complete the study materials.
Unfortunately, you cannot take part if you are considered a vulnerable adult or if you have difficulties communicating, including if there's a language barrier that would make it hard to understand the study materials.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you currently on an NHS waiting list in Wales for MSK podiatry, occupational therapy, or physiotherapy?
- Can you understand and agree to take part in the study?
- Can you read and write in English?
- Are you not considered a vulnerable adult or do not have communication difficulties?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you take part, you will be asked to complete a survey at the beginning of your wait and again when your wait ends. This survey will ask questions about how your musculoskeletal problem is affecting you. You won't need to visit a clinic; you can complete these surveys at home. Some participants will also be asked if they are willing to share their experiences in more detail as they wait for their appointment. The total duration of your participation will depend on how long you wait for your appointment.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Cardiff and Vale University HealthboardCardiff, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is a musculoskeletal condition?
Musculoskeletal conditions are problems that affect your bones, joints, muscles, and soft tissues, like arthritis, back pain, or injuries.
What does 'outpatient therapy' mean?
Outpatient therapy means you attend appointments at a hospital or clinic and then go home, rather than staying overnight.
Will taking part speed up my appointment?
No, taking part in this study will not affect how quickly you get your NHS appointment or the care you receive.
Do I have to complete all the surveys?
You are encouraged to complete both surveys, but you can withdraw from the study at any point if you change your mind.
Who will see my information?
Your personal information will be kept private and handled carefully. The study will analyse combined results to protect individual privacy.
How to find out more
Sara P James, MSc
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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