Heartbeat: Occupational health launches new musculoskeletal service pilot scheme

June 10, 2022

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions account for 30 per cent of GP consultations in England. Low back and neck pain are common issues, with chronic joint pain or osteoarthritis affecting more than 8.75 million people in the UK.

With this in mind, a new pilot scheme has been launched to support colleagues with or who are at risk of musculoskeletal problems. It will supplement our existing provision for colleagues available via our physiotherapy team.

Introducing the new pilot, Dr Masood Aga, Clinical Director for Occupational Medicine and Lead for Health and Wellbeing, told Heartbeat: “The pilot aims to have a multi-disciplinary team approach with a strong focus on prevention, early intervention and rehabilitation. The plan is to have physiotherapy, specialist input and occupational health support as a one stop-shop. It will also help avoid delays for colleagues with MSK problems that we are currently experiencing due to pressures on primary care.”

NHS Charities helped to secure funding. Dr Aga explained: “Johnny Shah, Head of Your Trust Charity and his team have been instrumental in securing the funding for this project. I must express my gratitude for their support, and Mr Manoj Sikand, Clinical Director Trauma and Orthopaedics, and Mr Siten Roy, Group Director Surgical Services, for their support in setting up these specialist clinics.”

Dr Aga added: “It is important to note the comprehensive physio support offered by our Trust physiotherapy team and that this will continue during this pilot.

“Colleagues can choose to use either service – importantly, occupational health and the Trust physiotherapy will continue their coordination in supporting colleagues to access the care they need. Maintaining staff wellbeing is our shared focus, and we look forward to being able to assist those who need to use this valuable service.”

Colleagues can self-refer or be referred by their managers for this pilot. Referrals can be made by contacting occupational health by emailing swbh.ohreferrals@nhs.net. Management referrals can be made via the cohort system.