RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Effect of Brief-tele Support on Attendance at Physiotherapy Sessions

This study aims to find out if a short phone call can help more people attend their physiotherapy appointments for pelvic floor problems. Currently, about half of people on the waiting list don't show up for their first session. This means treatment is delayed and NHS resources aren't used as well as they could be. We will divide patients into three groups: one gets a call before their appointment letter, another gets a call after, and a third group doesn't get a call. The call will last about 5-10 minutes, reminding patients of their appointment, explaining the treatment, and answering any questions they might have. We hope to improve attendance and make things more efficient for everyone.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Swansea University

Enrolment target

500

Start

30 Sep 2015

Estimated completion

30 Sep 2025

Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions

What is this study about?

This research is looking into a common problem: people not attending their first physiotherapy appointment, especially for pelvic floor issues. It's quite common for about half of all people on the waiting list not to turn up. This can delay their treatment and means that appointment slots are wasted, which isn't efficient for the NHS.

The main aim of this study is to see if a simple phone call can make a difference. We want to find out if giving people a quick call before or after they receive their appointment letter helps them attend their sessions. We'll compare this to a group who don't receive a call at all.

During the phone call, which will last about 5 to 10 minutes, a nurse or therapist will remind you about your appointment. They will briefly explain what the physiotherapy involves, talk about the possible good points and any potential downsides, and give you a chance to ask any questions you might have about your treatment.

Key takeaways

The study aims to improve attendance at physiotherapy for pelvic floor problems.
It tests if a brief phone call helps people attend their appointments.
You might get a call before or after your appointment letter, or no call at all.
Taking part is voluntary and won't change your physiotherapy treatment.
The phone call is short (5-10 minutes) and gives you a chance to ask questions.

Who may be eligible?

This study is for women who are on the waiting list to receive physiotherapy treatment for pelvic floor problems.

To be part of this study, you need to be 18 years old or older.

There are no other specific reasons that would stop you from taking part, apart from not fitting these two main requirements.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a woman?
Are you on the waiting list for physiotherapy for pelvic floor problems?
Are you 18 years old or older?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you might receive a phone call lasting about 5 to 10 minutes. This call would either happen just before or just after your appointment letter is sent out. If you are in the group that doesn't receive a call, then you won't have any extra contact related to the study. Your physiotherapy treatment itself will remain exactly the same as it would be normally, regardless of whether you are in the study or not, and which group you are in. There are no extra visits, assessments, or medications involved in this study. The study focuses only on whether a phone call affects your attendance at your initial physiotherapy appointment.

Potential risks and benefits

There are no major risks involved in taking part in this study; the main extra step is possibly receiving a short phone call. The potential benefits include getting a reminder about your appointment and having an opportunity to ask questions about your treatment, which might help clarify what to expect. This could lead to you feeling more prepared and attending your physiotherapy. Remember, taking part in this study is completely voluntary, and you have the right to change your mind and withdraw at any time without it affecting your usual medical care or your place on the physiotherapy waiting list.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Singleton Hospital
Verified postcode
Swansea, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

Will my treatment be different if I join the study?

No, your physiotherapy treatment will be exactly the same whether you take part in the study or not, and regardless of which group you are in.

What happens during the phone call?

The call will be about 5-10 minutes long. You'll get a reminder of your appointment, a brief explanation of the treatment, and a chance to ask questions.

Do I have to take part?

No, taking part is completely your choice. Your decision won't affect your medical care in any way.

How long will the study last for me?

The study's involvement for you will be very brief, limited to possibly receiving a phone call before your first physiotherapy appointment.

What are pelvic floor dysfunctions?

These are problems with the muscles that support your bladder, bowel, and womb, which can cause symptoms like leaks or discomfort.

How to find out more

Lisa A Osborne, Ph.D.

lisa.osborne@nhs.wales.uk 01792 285229 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.